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Inca Trail Trek

Peru - Trip code PQ Walking and Trekking
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116Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
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Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Tick the Inca Trail off your bucket list on our trekking holiday in Peru. Walk the iconic route to discover majestic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Delve deep into the dramatic Andes Mountains, passing Incan ruins and through diverse cloud forests. Bookended by stays in Cusco, you'll get a taste of historic Peru, too.

Why we love this trip
  • Inca Trail - Take a fully-supported four-day trek along the famous trail, camping under the stars and away from the crowds.
  • Machu Picchu - Catch your first glimpse of the magnificent site arriving at the Sun Gate on foot.
  • Cusco - Spend time in the old Inca capital, exploring the cobbled streets of the colonial city and watching life go by at the bustling Plaza de Armas.

  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 8

    Lunch: 4

    Dinner: 3

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Cook

    Driver(s)

    Local Guide(s)

    Porter(s)

  • Transport

    Bus

    Train

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    Accommodation

    3 nights simple camping

    4 nights comfortable hotel

    1 nights premium hotel

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    Walking grade:

    Moderate and Challenging

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    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 16
    Explore Average 11

Itinerary

Day 1 - Join trip Cusco

Our tour starts in Cusco, the old heart of the Inca Empire and the archaeological capital of the Americas. The Spanish-style city of today, with its pink tiled roofs, arcaded plazas and steep winding alleyways, stands upon tremendous Inca foundations, its links with the Inca Empire are everywhere, from the stone walls that line the city streets, to the museums filled with artefacts and relics.

For those arriving in time, our tour leader will meet you in the hotel reception at 1.30pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there'll be the option to go out for lunch at a local restaurant. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Cusco at any time.

If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), which is around a 15-minute drive away. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your tour leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. The main trek briefing will take place on day two.

Later today, you might like to relax and acclimatise to the altitude at the hotel or take a gentle stroll to the Plaza de Armas.

Accommodation:

Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Histórico (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: None

Day 2 - Walking tour of Cusco. Visit to Sacsayhuaman

This morning, we'll take an immersive walking tour through the captivating city of Cusco, kicking things off in the colossal archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman, a stone fortress that's still at the core of Cusco's traditions. Winding our way along an old Incan trail, we'll head down to the colonial neighbourhood of San Cristobal, where the plaza gives us a sweeping view over the city's rooftops. Navigating the narrow streets of the old city, we'll reach the aqueduct of Sapantiana, a hidden engineering marvel only known by locals. This aqueduct directs us to arty San Blas, where coffee shops converge with traditional artisan's workshops, we'll explore the cobbled calles, venturing inside the studios to marvel at the local craftsmanship.

Entering the main Plaza de Armas of Cusco, the focal point of the city, we're welcomed by the baristas of Three Monkeys Coffee who serve us the finest Peruvian beans. Then, once revived, we'll continue walking, gazing upon the Qoricancha complex, once the Inca's most sacred site dedicated to the Sun God. Our final destination is Mercado de Wanchaq, a local hot spot jammed with rows of colourful stalls and filled with the aromas of seasonal fruit. Slurping freshly pressed juice, we'll watch the sellers hawking their wares before returning to the hotel. The walking tour is approximately 4 kilometres/2.5 miles and is expected to take around four to five hours.

The afternoon is free to rest and acclimatise, you might like to visit one of Cusco's museums.

Accommodation:

Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Histórico (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 3 - Free day in Cusco; Option to trek to Moray, stand up paddle board on Piuray Lagoon or take a brewery tour

Today has been left free to acclimatise and explore Cusco's old town further. You could walk up to Sacsayhuaman temple for views over the town, or there are several optional excursions available in the Sacred Valley.

You can take a half-day walk to visit the Maras salt mine and Moray, a fascinating archaeological site with concentric terraces, said to be used by the Incas as a botanical laboratory. This 6-kilometre/3.7-mile walk is expected to take around three hours.

Alternatively, for water sport enthusiasts there is the option to go stand-up paddle boarding on Piuray Lagoon.

There is also the chance to visit Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado, the Sacred Valley brewery, including a tour and tasting of the nine craft beers brewed on-site.

These activities include a guide and transport and can be booked with your tour leader on the first day.

Accommodation:

Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Histórico (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 4 - Commence Inca Trail, walk to Llaqtapata ruins

This morning, we'll leave the city of Cusco behind and drive to Ollantaytambo, an original Inca town. Here we'll have a short walking tour to stretch our legs, visiting a traditional house and our first view of Inca terracing. We'll continue by bus for another hour to reach Kilometre 82, the starting point for the classic Inca Trail. The trail was first explored by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and opened for walkers in 1970. The famous ruins of Machu Picchu are not the only historical remains within the area, many other interesting sites are hidden in places which can only be reached on foot and have scarcely been explored.

We'll meet our porters and support staff and begin our trek after lunch. The route crosses the Urubamba River, following a wide dirt trail alongside the riverbank. The undulating path takes us into the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Llaqtapata (2,700 metres/8,858 feet). Here, we'll camp opposite the ruins of Llaqtapata, a spectacular spot with amazing night skies. There are no permanent facilities here but the camp crew will set up a toilet tent for the group to use.

Today's moderate 8-kilometre/5-mile walk is expected to take around two-and-a-half hours with an ascent of 100 metres/328 feet.

Accommodation:

Campsite (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single Room Unavailable

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Follow the river to Wayllabamba village; continue to Llulluchapampa

After a hearty breakfast, we'll cross the river to visit the Llaqtapata Inca ruins before continuing with the trek. Today, we'll follow the course of the Kusichaca River past small communities, crossing it to reach Wayllabamba, a quiet village of Inca origins and the last settlement on the route. After lunch, we'll gradually ascend through the start of the cloud forest to Llulluchapampa (3,800 metres/12,467 feet) which gives us stunning views of the snowy peaks around us. We'll set up camp for the night here. There's a well-maintained facilities block with flushing toilets and sinks at the site.

Today's moderate 10-kilometre/6.2-mile walk is expected to take around six hours with 1,080 metres/3,543 feet ascent.

Accommodation:

Campsite (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single Room Unavailable

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Cross 'Dead Woman's Pass' (4,200metres/13,780feet), hike through cloud forest to Phuyupatamarca

Today we'll have an earlier start as we trek over the Warmiwanusca (Dead Woman's) Pass to 4,200 metres/13,780 feet. The two-hour ascent is one of the more challenging sections of the trek but we'll take it slow and steady with many stops to admire the view and sunrise. After a rest and photo opportunity, we'll descend along a stepped path to the valley of the Pacamayo River with its tropical vegetation. Here, we'll break for brunch before beginning the ascent (mainly on steps) to the second pass of the day. After visiting the ruins of Runkuraqay, it's the final ascent to cross the Runkuraqay Pass (3,950 metres/12,959 feet).

After the pass, we'll have a long gradual descent passing into the start of the main cloud forest to reach the bottom of the valley. The Sayacmarca ruins are visible on a rocky outcrop, they command an imposing view and have only one means of access, a narrow granite stairway. We'll cross the valley to reach the Sayacmarca campsite for a late lunch. From here, the trail goes through cloud forest with vines, exotic flowers (among them orchids) and luxuriant trees, with views (if we're lucky) of the snowcapped peaks of Salkantay. We'll walk through an Inca tunnel and along a ridge above the Urubamba River to our campsite above the Phuyupatamarca ruins (3,579 metres/11,742 feet). The campsite has amazing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and down the valley towards Machu Picchu Mountain. While there is a toilet block here, it's not well maintained, so our crew will set up a toilet tent for our group to use.

Today's challenging 15-kilometre/9.3-mile walk is expected to take around eight hours with 1,000 metres/3,281 feet ascent and 630 metres/2,067 descent.

Accommodation:

Campsite (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single Room Unavailable

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - Arrive to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate

This morning is our final day walking along the Inca Trail. We'll say thank you and goodbye to our porters and begin our trek into Machu Picchu. We'll pass the Phuyupatamarca ruins and spend most of the morning going down, following stone paths and stairways, 80% of which are original Inca architecture. Coming out of the cloud forest, we'll be greeted by spectacular views down the valley, walking through the impressive Inca terraces at Intipata, we'll reach our lunch stop at Winay-Wayna (2,591 metre/8,501 feet). Those who wish can visit the ruins here, this Inca site is built into the steep hillside and, like Machu Picchu, was abandoned for unknown reasons.

Winding our way along the edge of the mountain, we'll follow a wide path adorned with wildflowers and orchids to take the final steps up to Inti Punku - the Gate of the Sun. Passing through, there are sudden and fantastic views of the Lost City itself, Machu Picchu. We'll walk down through the site and then take the public bus down the mountainside to our hotel in the town of Aguas Calientes situated on the valley floor below Machu Picchu.

Today's moderate 14-kilometre/8.7-mile walk is expected to take around six hours with 1,000 metres/3,281 feet descent.

Accommodation:

El Mapi Hotel (or similar)

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 8 - Guided tour of Machu Picchu; return to Cusco by train and by bus

Our final morning in the mountains is spent at Machu Picchu, probably the most astounding feat of engineering in all of ancient America. Temples, stairways, palaces and gabled stone dwellings are scattered everywhere, testifying to the energy and ingenuity of the builders. We'll have a guided tour with our tour leader before taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

Before your guided tour, it's possible to get up early and climb (unguided) the steep peaks of either Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain from where you can look down on the citadel (it is not possible to do both hikes due to time constraints). Machu Picchu Mountain is a 700-metre/2,297-foot climb from the top of the citadel. There are cobbled stairs all the way up with a few eye-opening drops in some parts, but predominantly very enclosed and with a fairly steady, but not too strenuous, gradient. The round-trip takes about two-and-a-half to three hours. Huayna Picchu Mountain is only 350 metres/1,148 feet, half the size of Machu Picchu Mountain, but much steeper. There are many more sheer drops, and it's not suitable for someone with a fear of heights. For those who fancy doing the two-hour climb, you'll be rewarded with world-class views of Machu Picchu and the feeling that you're standing on a precipice at the top of the world.

These climbs must be pre-paid at the time of booking. If you change your passport between the time you book and your travel, please take your original passport with you. Those doing one of the optional climbs will take the first bus up to Machu Picchu to begin the climb, after which you'll exit the site and meet up with the rest of the group to take the guided tour.

In the afternoon, we'll get the train to Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and then return to the historic town of Cusco by bus.

Accommodation:

Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Histórico (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 9 - Trip ends Cusco

Our trip ends this morning at our hotel in Cusco.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Cusco at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).

Depending on the schedule of your flights, you might have some additional time to visit a museum or do some souvenir shopping in the winding streets and alleys of the city.

If you're travelling onto the Amazon, you'll be transferred to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport this morning for your flight to Puerto Maldonado.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information

Peru

Climate

There is a rainy season from Dec - Mar however on the coast it rarely rains. Jun-Oct is damp and misty, but temperatures never drop below 10°C. At high altitudes although there are sunny days temperatures can drop dramatically, and conditions can change suddenly.

Time difference to GMT

-5

Plugs

2 Pin Flat

Religion

Catholicism

Language

Spanish

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Sacred Valley:
-Half day Maras and Moray Walk - 3-5 pers US$100, 5-7 pers US$74, 8 pers + US$67 (min 3 pers)
- Whitewater Rafting full day trip - 2 pers US$186, 3 pers US$136, 4-6 pers US$111
-Kayak and Paddle Board - 3-5 pers US$107, 5-7 pers US$90, 8 pers + US$87.50 (min 3 pers)
-Craft beer tasting - US$58 (min 3 pers)
Card or cash accepted

Huayna Picchu Mountain - £69; Machu Picchu Mountain £69
These are both subject to availability and must be pre-paid at time of booking and is non-refundable. If you change your passport between your time of booking and prior to travel please take your original passport with you to avoid being fined

Clothing

In the highlands conditions can be dry and sunny during the day but bring warm clothing such as a warm fleece, thermal underwear, warm hat and gloves. These will be needed when the temperatures drop, especially at night when temperatures can drop dramatically. Lightweight waterproofs are also essential. You may also wish to bring your swimsuit.

Thermals: Useful for walking when cold, around camp and much more practical (and warmer) to sleep in than pyjamas.

Trainers or Trekking sandals: Useful around camp, in towns and when travelling. Waterproof sandals are ideal for rafting.

Socks: Use good quality socks that you are used to walking in, plus liner socks if you are used to these.

Waterproofs: Breathable waterproofs not only protect against rain and wind, but also stop you from overheating.

Thick jumper/fleece jacket: A thick jumper or fleece jacket is necessary as nights can be very cold at altitude, especially in their winter months (June to September). Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your sweater or fleece.

T-shirts: We recommend t-shirts made from wicking materials as these keep you drier and warmer.

Shorts: Shorts can be comfortable to walk in but carry long trousers with you in case of strong sun or you feel cold. Remember we shall be passing through the occasional remote village and short shorts (especially on women) can give offence to the local inhabitants.

Gloves and Hat: Essential around camp in the morning, and in the evening, at higher altitudes.

Footwear

We recommend you bring well broken in and comfortable walking boots with ankle support. We do not recommend borrowing or renting boots. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them - should your luggage be delayed, your boots are the one thing which will be irreplaceable. If you are rafting bring shoes that you don't mind getting wet.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

For your trek bring one main piece of baggage and a daypack.

Main luggage:
Your main bag should be lockable as this will be left in storage at the hotel in Cusco whilst on the trek.

Trek Kit Bag (provided by Explore at the hotel in Cusco):
Before leaving Cusco there is time to re-organise your luggage. Your trek luggage, including sleeping bag, should be packed into the kit bag which is to be carried by the porters. The weight limit for this is 7kg, advice on how to pack will be given at the trek briefing.

Small Rucksack/Daypack:
During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage, which is being carried for you by the porters. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. Your daypack should be large enough to carry your day things including: waterproofs, fleece, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, suncream, water bottle, tissues and your packed lunch. Camera equipment can be heavy so think carefully when deciding what to take. A rucksack with 20 or 25 litres capacity is usually sufficient.

Equipment


Remember to bring: torch, water bottle, insect repellent, suncream (at least factor 30), lip salve, good quality sunglasses and sunhat. Please note Drones are prohibited in most tourist areas in Peru. You may also wish to bring binoculars and your own sleeping bag.

Sleeping Bag: This may be down or synthetic, but should be 4-season. A cotton liner helps to keep your bag clean. You do not need a foam mat as thermarests are provided. It is possible to hire an appropriate down sleeping bag for the trek locally (US$ 20).

Personal Equipment On Trek
Trekking poles: Trekking poles are recommended. Please note metal tipped trekking poles are NOT permitted so please ensure they have rubber/plastic tips

Water Bottle: Water along the trail must never be considered as drinkable. The camp staff provide purified water each day with which to fill your bottle or camelback. Your bottle should hold at least two litre and be resuable as disposable plastic bottles are not allowed on the trail. Metal bottles can also double up as hot water bottles when hot water is available.

Torch/Batteries/Bulb: A small torch is essential for finding things in your tent, visiting the 'toilet' in the night etc. Often a head torch is the most practical option as it allows you to have both hands free. Remember to bring spare batteries.

Toiletries: Only bring essential toiletries such as toothbrush/paste, soap, toilet roll, face cloth and a trek/quick dry towel.

Personal First Aid Kit: On each trek a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, pain relief etc. for you own use.

Cloth bags: Single use plastic bags are not allowed on the trail.

The following equipment list is provided by Explore once you are on the trek:
2-person tents
Dining tent
Thermarest sleeping mat
Stools and table
Toilet tent

Equipment Hire and Trek Training Days - Trek Hire UK hire out a wide range of kit including quality sleeping bags, down jackets and walking poles http://www.trekhireuk.com. They also run regular trek training and preparation days from their base in the Surrey Hills, ideal for getting an indication of your overall fitness level and also covering advice on kit and altitude.


Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. However, you might want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline
Local crew
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group's tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
Accordingly, you should allow US$60, approx. 200 Peruvian Soles per perosn for group tipping
For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.

Peru

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£5.00-8.00
Dinner price
£15.00
Beer price
£2.00 - 4.00
Water price
£1
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Recommended Currency For Exchange
You can choose to either change your money in advance or on arrival at the airport. Here you will find both ATMs and Bureau de Change. The exchange rate with the PEN is approximately PEN 4.3 to the British Pound. We recommend you take some emergency cash in USD as the GBP exchange rate isn’t very good. Notes should be in good condition otherwise they might be difficult to exchange. Please check on line for up to date information
Where To Exchange
Your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
ATMs can be found in the major towns and cities for cash withdrawals in Nuevos Soles. Always have some cash back up as they are not always reliable
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card are widely accepted in many shops and restaurants but some may be subject to a service charge
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Bus, Train

Accommodation notes

During this trekking tour, we'll spend several nights camping. We set up camp in sites away from the main trail, avoiding the crowds and giving us peace after long days of hiking.
We'll stay in spacious two-man tents. A team of porters support us throughout our trek - they'll be responsible for setting up and breaking camp, including putting up and taking down tents and preparing meals. They also carry water and all of our luggage except for our daysacks.
Single tents can be requested prior to departure. These are of limited availability and are not included in the single-room supplement. You can request one for £90 extra.
At Llactapata camp, we'll camp opposite the ruins in a field to ourselves. There are no permanent facilities here but our crew will set up a toilet tent for the group.
We'll also stay at Llulluchapampa camp, a high camping ground with views down the valley. This site has a well-maintained facilities block with sinks and three toilets flushing, squat-style for women and three for men.
Phuyupatamarca camp is set above the clouds, offering the best views of the trail. It's worth noting that due to the terrain of the campsite, some tents will be pitched on an incline. There is a toilet block here but it's not kept in the best condition.

Peru

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information


Peru: Visas are not required for UK, New Zealand, Australian, US and Canadian citizens. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.

USA: (including those in transit) Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) - where you apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), which applies if you enter the country by sea or by air. This must be done on line - https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding.

You must have an electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information about the passport owner. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover.

If you have visited Iraq, Syria, Iran or Sudan since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel.

Please note for your ESTA application you will be required to supply Point of Contact information. Explore' s USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure. If you are leaving for the USA before this, please call the Explore team to get this information.(Not necessary if in transit)

For further information please check out the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html

Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Maximum altitude (m)

4200

Altitude information

This trip goes to an altitude where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), a common and usually harmless condition caused by reduced air pressure and a lower concentration of oxygen. Whilst the itinerary has been specifically designed to allow your body to acclimatise gradually, the speed of onset and severity - as well as the height at which AMS develops can vary greatly between individuals; being physically fit affords no special protection. If symptoms occur while on your trip you must let your Explore Leader know immediately. For further advice when travelling at altitude we recommend visiting the medical advice website of 'Medex' and downloading their information booklet: http://medex.org.uk/medex_book/english_version.php

Travellers with heart or lung conditions, anaemia, asthma, high blood pressure, or taking the contraceptive pill must seek the advice of their GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude the trip reaches (please refer to Tour Essentials box on front page of your Trip Notes). Please take the trip notes to your medical appointment so that your doctor has the full details of your trip.

You must have adequate travel insurance for your trip. Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the maximum altitude indicated above. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.

Included activities


Additional notes for trips that include the Inca Trail
1. In order to regulate the number of people walking on the Inca Trail it is necessary to buy an Inca Trail Pass specific to the days that you wish to travel. There are 200 passes per day for tourists, the remainder are for guides and porters.
2. If you are travelling on an Explore trip, Explore buy the necessary permit on your behalf. This is non-refundable and can't be refunded or transferred after you have confirmed your booking.
3. Passes sell out quickly, so we would urge that you book your tour well ahead of your intended travel date. New Inca Passes are released in early October of each year, so ideally we would recommend that you book your trip at least 6 months ahead and by December for the following year where possible.
4. Please note that due to the way the passes are distributed in October although a tour departure may be 'Guaranteed' we are unable to guarantee individual Inca Trail passes until we have confirmation that the passes have been purchased. On booking we will be able to tell you the date that your pass should be confirmed, and will contact you immediately in the (unusual) event that it is not. Because of this we would recommend that you either book your flights through Explore or ensure that your tickets are flexible / refundable.
5. In order to buy your pass we will need to take an additional £125 per person non refundable deposit and require your: name as per passport, passport number, date of birth and nationality. If you change passport before travelling it will be necessary to provide a copy of both passports in advance of travelling and to carry a copy of your previous passport with you.
6. The Peruvian authorities may change the regulations for the Inca Trail Pass at any time. In the event of this we will inform you as soon as possible.

Non refundable permits

Additional notes for trips that include the Inca Trail 1. In order to regulate the number of people walking on the Inca Trail it is necessary to buy an Inca Trail Pass specific to the days that you wish to travel. There are 200 passes per day for tourists, the remainder are for guides and porters. 2. If you are travelling on an Explore trip, Explore buy the necessary permit on your behalf. This is non-refundable and can't be refunded or transferred after you have confirmed your booking. 3. Passes sell out quickly, so we would urge that you book your tour well ahead of your intended travel date. New Inca Passes are released in early October of each year, so ideally we would recommend that you book your trip at least 6 months ahead and by December for the following year where possible. 4. Please note that due to the way the passes are distributed in October although a tour departure may be 'Guaranteed' we are unable to guarantee individual Inca Trail passes until we have confirmation that the passes have been purchased. On booking we will be able to tell you the date that your pass should be confirmed, and will contact you immediately in the (unusual) event that it is not. Because of this we would recommend that you either book your flights through Explore or ensure that your tickets are flexible / refundable. 5. In order to buy your pass we will need to take an additional £125 per person non refundable deposit and require your: name as per passport, passport number, date of birth and nationality. If you change passport before travelling it will be necessary to provide a copy of both passports in advance of travelling and to carry a copy of your previous passport with you. 6. The Peruvian authorities may change the regulations for the Inca Trail Pass at any time. In the event of this we will inform you as soon as possible.

Ability to swim

An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of the water based activities on this trip. If you wish to participate in these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.

Peru

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, polio and hepatitis A. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

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