In order to become accustomed to Cusco’s altitude, (3400 meters / 11,000 feet), we always recommend our guests to arrive two or three days before beginning their tour. This also gives visitors plenty of time to explore the stunning historic city of Cusco. Please contact us for recommendations on suitable accommodations in Cusco, before and after your tour.

The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol. Although you can sometimes use U.S. Dollars in stores and restaurants in Cusco, it is not guaranteed. Therefore, it is advisable to always carry soles on you. You can exchange your money in many places including the airport, in banks, or in currency exchange companies. You can also use your credit/debit card at ATMs across the country (there is often a fee to use a foreign card at Peruvian banks to withdraw money).

You do not need to be fluent in Spanish to come to Peru, but it is good to learn some basic words and phrases, such as how to ask for directions, how to order in a restaurant, or how to ask for something in a store.

To travel independently on our tours you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits, however, all travelers are required to fill out a medical questionnaire and consider their health before participating. Our tours are also available to children over the age of 7 who are accompanied by an adult.

All of our guides are educated in the field of tourism, have received first aid assistance training and are fluent in English. We also have guides who offer tours in Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Portuguese. All guides have excellent knowledge about local flora and fauna as well as Peru’s history, geography and culture.

Transportation (car, bus or train) and transfers are included in the itinerary of our tours. On the first day, a member of the Peru Ecocamp’s staff will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco.

All the trekking routes we select are well maintained and safe. You will be guaranteed an authentic trekking experience with stunning and unspoiled scenery. Each day’s trekking will be different, as we pass through a range of ecosystems.

Altitude sickness is fairly common for people who are not used to spending time at such a high altitude as Cusco (3399m/ 11,152 ft.). We recommend you take it very easy and drink plenty of water for at least two days before starting the Salkantay Trek. The highest point you will reach while hiking the Salkantay Trail is 4600m /15090 ft. at the Abra Salkantay Pass. You will sleep at 3,900m/ 12,792 ft. on the third night.

The trail is still completely safe during the rainy season. Due to the fact that you won’t have to sleep in tents but will be accommodated in the spacious and warm domes, you may see it as a great opportunity to experience the trail when there are fewer tourists. You will be welcomed into each Ecocamp with a warm cup of tea or fresh juice come rain or shine! (Just don’t forget a good rain jacket and waterproof hiking boots).

You will have a guided tour of the ruins that lasts approximately 2-3 hours, after which you will have 2-3 hours more to spend on your own. You will have the option to climb Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu or simply stroll around the Incan Citadel and explore. You can take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes any time you like after the guided tour.

At our Ecocamps, you can pay for extra services (relaxing massages, mountain bikes, horse riding, cooking classes, and alcoholic beverages) with your credit card. Tipping is appreciated by our local guides and staff, entirely at the individual guest’s discretion.