General Information

Where can I find more info about the tour?

Check the online itinerary for a download button with full trip notes. After you book, we send a pre-departure pack with visa and vaccination details.

What should I pack?

You’ll get a general packing list and trip-specific items in your pre-departure pack after booking.

What vaccinations do I need?

This depends on your destination. Talk to your doctor early; some vaccines need weeks to administer. For the Amazon, anti-malarials might be needed. Keep your vaccination certificates handy for visa applications.

Should I bring medical supplies?

The pack lists suggestions. Bring basics for minor issues like colds or blisters. Carry all your regular meds. Asthmatics should bring extra supplies; city air pollution can be rough.

How much luggage can I bring?

Pack light. A backpack or soft duffel beats a hard suitcase, especially on cobblestone streets. You’ll handle your own bag. Check airline limits for specifics.

Will laundry be available?

Most hotels offer service or there’s a place nearby. Bring travel detergent; it cuts down what you need to pack for longer trips.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

Maybe. Your pre-departure pack will say if it’s required for your specific tour.

Do I need a visa?

Requirements vary. We send detailed visa info after you book. Apply early; processing can take a while.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, it’s mandatory. Your policy must cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and adventure activities. Buy it when you book. Your leader needs two copies of your docs.

Can I access the internet?

You’ll find internet in most cities. It can be slow, sketchy, or pricey in remote spots.

Will my phone work?

You’ll get coverage in major cities. Check with your provider about international roaming plans before you go.

Do I need different gear for active trips?

Absolutely. You’ll get a specific packing list for treks like the Inca Trail or rafting the Apurímac River. We provide the technical gear. Just email us if you’re unsure.

Families, Private & Shared Groups

Can I travel with my kids?

Yes. We have family trips mixing culture, wildlife, and activities for all ages. Trips have a minimum age and involve walking. A bit of fitness and curiosity helps.

What about long travel days with kids?

We keep travel times manageable. We avoid overnight journeys and break up long drives with fun stops to keep everyone happy.

What activities are on family trips?

Think cultural visits and hands-on fun. Imagine exploring the Sacred Valley, horseback riding, or a cooking class. We build in downtime and pick comfy hotels.

Can we book a private trip?

For sure. Groups of two or more can book a private tour. For seven or more, we can build a custom itinerary. Our Private Groups team handles families, friends, and special groups.

Booking the Trip

Do I have to book online?

Yes, our website is built for easy bookings.

How do I check trip availability?

Our site shows real-time status—open, full, or spots left. A ‘Guaranteed’ tag means it’s running, but space could be limited. Call our experts if you need help.

Can I join just part of a tour?

Usually not. Tours are full experiences. Some longer tours are segments you can book separately.

Does the price include international flights?

No. We can help you find flights through our partners if you want.

How far ahead should I book?

It varies. Book once you’re decided. For big treks like the Inca Trail, book 3-6 months early with a 40% deposit. You can sometimes pay the rest right before you start in Cusco.

When is final payment due?

Full payment is due 30 days before departure. If you book within 56 days of the trip, you pay everything at once. Last-minute bookings need immediate payment.

Can I book through a travel agent?

Yes, we work with agents.

You and Your Traveling Companions

Is this a typical group tour?

No. We focus on local immersion, not standard tour routines. We use local guides, private transport, and comfy hotels for a seamless, authentic trip.

I’m solo. Is that okay?

Totally. We get lots of solo travelers. Rooms are twin-share, so we pair you with someone of the same gender for no extra cost. You can book a private room for a fee.

Who will I be with?

You’ll meet an international crowd—often from Australia, NZ, the UK, and North America. Ages range from 20s to 60s+. We group like-minded people together.

Are there age limits?

No strict limits, but most travelers are 20s to 60s. Some trips have hiking or stairs, so check the notes to see if it’s a good fit.

How many people are in a group?

We keep it small. Max 16 people, average around 12. It makes for a better experience.

Is this group travel right for me?

If you’re curious and want to dive into local culture, then yes. We handle all the logistics so you can just enjoy the ride.

Money Matters

What’s included in the trip cost?

Your price covers: a local English-speaking guide, airport pickup, mostly private transport, hotels, entrance fees, many meals, 24/7 support, and high-quality gear for activities.

How much spending money do I need?

Trip notes give local cost estimates. Your pre-departure pack has budgeting tips. You’ll mostly need cash for personal stuff, souvenirs, and extra meals.

What’s the best way to carry money?

Use a mix: some cash, an ATM card, and a credit card for backup. US dollars are widely accepted, but bring clean, small bills. Check your bank’s international fees.

Should I tip my guide?

Tipping isn’t required but it’s a nice way to say thanks. You can tip individually or as a group at the end.

Can I bring gifts for locals?

If you do, bring useful stuff like school supplies, not candy. Don’t hand things out directly—it can encourage begging. Your tour leader can guide you to a school or charity. Better yet, buy supplies locally to support the economy.

On Tour

Why use local guides?

They know the region inside out. They’ll take you to hidden spots and the best local eats. Using them supports the community and gives you the real deal.

How much free time will I have?

We balance scheduled activities with free time for you to explore on your own. Some travel days are long and have less flexibility.

Will I have time to explore the start/end cities?

Itineraries cover the key highlights. If you want more time, we can book extra nights for you. Ask about trip extensions.

What are the hotels like?

We use comfortable, centrally located hotels with private bathrooms. We love smaller, locally-owned spots. Some trips even include homestays for real immersion.

What’s the food like?

Your guide will point out authentic dishes and help with menus. You’ll get a mix of market eats, local favorites, and good restaurants.

Can you handle dietary restrictions?

Yes, just tell us in advance. Veggie and other special diets are available, though choices might be slim in some remote areas.

How do I get to the tour start point?

Many tours include an airport pickup. Your trip starts at a specific hotel; we’ll give you all the meeting details in your docs.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, we can book extra nights before or after your tour. Just ask for a quote.

Can I change my return train ticket from Machu Picchu?

You can try. Changes must be made at the station in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,692 ft). It’s not guaranteed and might cost a fee. Switching to a cheaper ticket doesn’t get you a refund.

What type of transport is used?

We mostly use private vehicles. Sometimes we use local transport for the experience. Be ready to walk to some remote or historic sites.

Are there long travel days?

Some days are long, but we plan routes for comfort and great views. We sometimes use domestic flights to cut down on drive time.

What will the weather be like?

Check our website for seasonal info. Your pre-departure pack will have climate details for your specific trip.

Altitude and Your Health

Which parts are at high altitude?

Parts of the trip go above 3,300 meters (10,827 feet). Altitude sickness can hit anyone, no matter your age or fitness level. This is serious.

What should I do before my trip?

See your doctor. Discuss any pre-existing conditions and ask about meds that can help with acclimatization.

What is altitude sickness?

It happens when your body can’t get enough oxygen. Symptoms—headache, nausea, dizziness, serious fatigue—usually start 6-10 hours after going up.

What are the severe illnesses?

HAPE (fluid in the lungs) makes you breathless with a tight chest and constant cough. HACE (fluid in the brain) brings a severe headache, confusion, and loss of coordination. Both are medical emergencies requiring immediate descent. Don’t ignore this.

How can I prevent it?

Drink about 4 liters of water a day. Avoid booze and cigarettes. Eat small, carb-heavy meals. Go slow. Walk at half your normal pace and take lots of breaks. Listen to your body.

When should I seek help?

Rate your symptoms from 1 (mild) to 10 (severe). If you hit a 7, or if symptoms stick around for more than a day or two, tell your tour leader immediately. You might need to go down to a lower altitude. It’s for your own safety.