ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Brief History of Machu Picchu & Advice:

Machu Picchu was (relatively recently) "discovered" by American historian, Hiram Bingham, in 1911 while searching for the legendary "lost city of the Incas".  Hiram Bingham and his local guides stumbled across the site which was then covered in thick vegetation which was later cleared revealing the magical mountain-top archaeological site and opening up the possibility for archaeologists to conduct research on the site by 1915. Whether arriving via Inca Trail or entering from Aguas Calientes don't miss the excellent photo opportunities from the following spots:  Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock (a restored building with a thatched roof), Sacred Plaza with views of the Cordillera Vilcabamba in the distance and Rio Urubamba below. 

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: 

Single travelers will share a room with another traveler & couples will have a private room.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

This hike is Moderate - a 10km trail mostly uphill, with 550 meters of uphill that might be difficult for people who are afraid of heights.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST:

Bring or Rent in Cuzco: hiking poles, rain pants, rain poncho, trekking boots, sandals, warm socks, sweater, thermals, hat, gloves, sun hat, sun block, sun glasses, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card (there is limited to no electricity available during the trek), waterproof bags for your camera, hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit, water bottle.  Bring extra cash for snacks, water, gatorade which doubles or triples in price along the trail.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Trek Briefings: 

All travellers are required to visit the Cuzco office one day prior to the trek for a mandatory briefing. At this meeting you will receive detailed information on the route, a list of what to bring, confirm your accommodation pick-up for the morning of the trek and be able to ask questions.

Check-in with your passport a few days to a few hours before your briefing to let us know you've arrived safely and get some individualized attention. We'll confirm your pick-up info and answer any questions you may have, like booking extras, rental equipment, etc.

Note: You will have a guide during the trek and on the Machu Picchu tour. However, during your bus and train transfers you will not be accompanied by a guide.

DON'T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS

Original passport, visa (if applicable), insurance card, personal medications.

Travellers who booked their trip using one passport, then renewed or replaced it afterward, must carry the old passport they used to make the booking or a photocopy with them on the trip.

Departure dates for trek: 

No departures in February due to unfavorable climatic conditions