FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT THE PROGRAMS & HIKES
- When is the best time to go?
- CLIMATE
There are two main seasons in the Andean region: the dry season, approximately from April to September and the rain season from October to March (January through March being the wettest). The dry season is most recommended for hiking and climbing. The days are clear and sunny for the most part, and chances of rain are minimal. Temperatures vary from day time to night time and with altitude and ecosystems. You could be hiking in the sun feeling it is around 26°C (79°F) and then walk through the forest or in the shadow of a mountain and feel almost instantly like 14°C (57°F). At high altitude, temperature could drop down to -6°C (21°F). We recommend you keep your body temperature as regular as possible by using layering of clothes you can easily put on and take off. During the rain season it may be drizzly all day or you may have a burst of rain and clear skies for the rest of the day, or it could be wet on and off all day. You need good rain gear for walking as well as something to protect your backpack.
Please refer to the table of Cusco averages below, or for more details go to MyForecast/Cusco
- FESTIVALS AND HOLIDAYS
Cusco is a festive town par excellence that has converted the religious celebrations into popular festivities with dances, ceremonies, meals and beverages. Whether you are looking for a Peruvian festival or wish to avoid the crowds during a festival, check the calendar before you book your dates.
- How is altitude going to affect me?
Travelers to the Cusco (3,400 m / 11,200 ft) and Andean areas need to take common sense measures in regards to altitude acclimatization, especially if they flew from sea level. Symptoms of altitude sickness are usually fatigue, headache, or light-headedness during their first day or two at elevation.
We highly recommend appropriate rest the day of arrival, especially if you have to recover from jet lag. Then, at least 2 days of mild activities around Cusco before starting any hike. We also advise adequate hydration, especially “mate de coca” (coca leaves tea), no alcohol, smoking or sedative intake. Hotels have oxygen and coca leaves tea available.
Keep in mind that your arrival could be delayed due to transportation strikes, cancellation of flights, poor weather, etc. And because your Inca Trail permit—or other—cannot be changed to another date, you could miss out on your tour altogether or suffer more from the altitude effects because you didn't have enough time to acclimate. Since Cusco and its surroundings have so much to offer anyway, you will only be thrilled to discover the area. We offer magnificent tours around Cusco, which we will be happy to tailor to your specific taste and budget.
On the hikes, we will provide you with coca leaves to chew and coca leaves tea to prevent and relieve symptoms. We have never had a traveler that suffered severe altitude sickness but in this rare case, the solution would be to go down in elevation as soon as possible. Many severe cases of altitude sickness are the result of a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by the altitude. It is important to ask your doctor whether or not travel to high altitude is advised, especially if you have a pre-existing heart or lung condition such as high blood pressure, asthma, angina, etc. On the Classic Inca trail, you will be hiking in altitudes ranging from approximately 9,000 to 14,500 ft / 2.800 to 4,500 m. The highest camping spot is about 12,000 ft / 3,700 m. For the more difficult trails, we advise proper training in addition to physical check-up and adequate acclimatization.
- What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the trail?
Guides carry oxygen for high altitude and a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler's diarrhea, cuts/ scrapes, etc.). They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 500 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike. In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/she has been escorted back to Cusco and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later. Cusco has the closest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.
- How difficult are the hikes? Do I have to be fit?
Each trek we offer indicates its level of difficulty, from moderate to strenuous.
The Classic Inca Trail is usually fitted for anyone who is used to hiking and camping. The 4-day itinerary is approximately 28 miles / 45 km long, so the distances traveled each day are not excessive. However, the altitude can make hiking these distances feel about twice as difficult as hiking the same distance at sea level. The time you allow to acclimate to the altitude will be more critical than your physical fitness.
- How to choose an itinerary?
The area of Cusco offers such an array of interests and possibilities that whether you are adrenaline-oriented or wish to visit Cusco for its cultural legacy and scenic splendor, there are plenty of choices to make. Because of the need for physical acclimatization (unless you are a regular hiker at such altitudes), we recommend to all our hikers to spend at least 3 days around Cusco before any hiking trip.
The difficulty of the hike is a matter of fitness and personal interest. Make sure you know your own comfort needs and level of physical fitness before signing up on a strenuous trek. For the fit and adventurous, who pack a sense of wonder and curiosity along with the bug spray, the experience and memories will be life changing. If after reading our descriptions of the programs, you still can’t make a choice, we will be delighted to coach you.
- What do I need to bring for the hike?
All items are listed under the section "What to Bring" at the bottom of each trek's full description.
- What do I need to carry each day?
Hikers will only need to carry their daypack with items needed for the day such as water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, flashlight, and sometimes rain gear and warm wear for the evening. All of your other supplies including camping equipment, clothes, sleeping bags, etc. will be loaded on horses/mules. Keep in mind that these animals will usually be ahead of the group and that what they carry won’t be available until arrival at the campsite. To prevent animals from becoming overloaded, we ask all travelers to limit their personal belongings to 25 kg (55 lbs) per animal. Extra horses may be rented upon request.
- Where do I keep my luggage while I am hiking?
We ask travelers to bring only the belongings that they will need for the trek and leave any unneeded luggage at their hotel. Most hotels have a storage room for that purpose.
- What is the food like on the trails?
It can’t be better described than through this except from one of our clients' travelogue:
Vegetarian meals are available upon request. Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.
- How is drinking water supplied?
We suggest you fill up your refillable water bottle for the first day and then refill it on the trek. Water is boiled, treated with iodine, and then filtered with one of our portable filters. It is available in the morning and at every meal. We still suggest you take water purification tablets or filters for any unboiled water you may take directly from streams or waterfalls.
- Which campsites do you use?
Campsites are subject to change depending upon the crowds and the season. We generally try to camp in less trafficked areas so that travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the trail and minimize environmental impact.
- What does “Peru Here & Now” do to minimize cultural / environmental impact?
We brief tourists before the trip on appropriate behavior. We keep groups small. We use biodegradable soap and transport all garbage back to Cusco.
- How much do I tip?
Tipping is welcome and is a tradition on the trails. The guide and staff will be much better off if you tip them in cash. Generally groups prepare a collective tip that they give the staff during the last meal, before the cooks leave. A general guideline is 10-15 USD (approx. 7-11 euros) tip per trekker for the guide, muleteer, cook and helpers. Most trekkers take approximately 40 USD (approx. 22 euros) to cover tipping.
PAYMENT POLICY & RESPONSIBILITIES
- How do I book a tour?
After you have contacted us, reservations should be made at least 45 days in advance to ensure services. By that deadline, and after we have confirmed we can book your trek, we will need:
-
An emailed copy of your passport (in jpeg or PDF format). Please read Travel Information below for important information about passports.
An emailed copy of your passport (in jpeg or PDF format). Please read Travel Information below for important information about passports.-A bank deposit, money order or certified check in US dollars made out to "SpeakGlobal" to our US Office address. Countries outside USA must send a wire transfer or a check drawn on a US bank. We request a minimum advance payment of 50% of the total amount (except for Classic and Short Inca Trails*.) The remaining balance will be due upon your arrival in Cusco in cash (Euros, USD or Peruvian Soles) or by American Express Travelers Checks or credit card (10% commission charged in both cases.)
A bank deposit, money order or certified check in US dollars made out to "SpeakGlobal" to our US Office address. Countries outside USA must send a wire transfer or a check drawn on a US bank. We request a minimum advance payment of 50% of the total amount (except for Classic and Short Inca Trails*.) The remaining balance will be due upon your arrival in Cusco in cash (Euros, USD or Peruvian Soles) or by American Express Travelers Checks or credit card (10% commission charged in both cases.)* For the Classic and Short Inca Trails, we request a minimum 60% advance payment.
We cannot guarantee the desired services beyond the 45-day deadline but we will try our best.
- Cancellation Policy
May there be a cancellation on your part at least 30 days in advance, you will be reimbursed 10% of the 50% down payment (10% of the 60% for Inca Trail) and 50% of the remaining amount deposited. There will be no reimbursement beyond the 30-day deadline.
- Responsibilities
Peru Here & Now does not assume responsibility for injury, losses, accidents, damage, delays, inconveniences or any other type of irregularity that may occur from defects of any kind or through any situations of omission, carelessness or negligence.
All prices indicated on the web site www.PeruHereNow.com are subject to change without prior notice.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Passports and Visas
Citizens of most Western European countries, North and South America, Australia and New Zealand only require a valid passport to enter Peru. We recommend you double-check with the Consulate of Peru in your country or consult this website: PassportsAndVisas.com
You need to ensure that your passport has at least 6 months left to run after the date that you enter the country.
You also need to ensure that you bring the same passport with which you made the reservation (the copy you emailed). Local governmental agencies that regulate entry to sites and train to Machu Picchu are extremely strict about official IDs. If you bring a different passport or a consulate document replacing lost passport, or have had a name change, you need to let us know and send us new copies before you come to Cusco, so we have time to update your reservation with the new ID.
Please bring also a photocopy of your passport with you.
- How much is the airport departure tax?
As of April 2007, Peru airport tax is $30.25 for international departures and $6.05 for each domestic flight to be paid in USD or local currency after check-in before entering gate area. If this amount has not already been added to the cost of your airline ticket, you should expect to pay this amount upon your departure from Peru. It is best paid with exact change in cash.
- Can I fly directly to Cusco, Peru for the start of the tour?
There are some direct flights to Cusco if you are departing from a city in South America.
All flights from the US and Canada fly into Lima. You will then need to get a connection flight to Cusco.
- Connecting or staying over in Lima - Safety issues
Flying from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 70 minutes. Most flights to Cusco leave Lima in the morning (the last flight lands in Cusco around 4:00 pm). If your Lima flight arrives early in the morning you would have the option of taking a connecting flight to Cusco that same morning. Otherwise, you have to spend the night in Lima.
The safest area to stay in Lima is Miraflores, where there are several nice hotels for all budgets. If you want to go downtown Lima, beware of pickpockets. Always keep your valuables hidden, even inside taxis.
When going from the airport to your hotel, we recommend you take a safe airport taxi and ensure that the driver has official identification. It should range from $20 to $30 to Miraflores. Never take a taxi waiting outside the airport grounds. And when travelling from your hotel to the airport, go with a taxi recommended by the hotel.
Common-sense precautions will be your best bodyguard.
- What Immunizations might I need when visiting Peru?
No inoculations are required as of April 2007.
- What about travel insurance?
We recommend that you get an Overseas Travel Medical Plan. Over the years, we have successfully worked with Health Plan Administrators, Inc.
Your policy will cover:
-Loss or delay of checked luggage
Loss or delay of checked luggage-Trip Cancellation
Trip Cancellation-Hospital & Medical Expenses
Hospital & Medical Expenses-24-Hour Medical Emergency Services
24-Hour Medical Emergency Services-Emergency Dental
Emergency Dental-Emergency Evacuation
Emergency Evacuation-Return of Minor Children
Return of Minor Children-Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Accidental Death & Dismemberment-Repatriation of Mortal Remains
Repatriation of Mortal RemainsFor more details you can email William Svob or call 1-(954) 345 1209
MONEY MATTERS
- Where can I exchange money for Peruvian Soles?
Money can be exchanged in banks and Casas de Cambio (exchange bureaus). You will find Casas de Cambio at the Lima airport and all around the Plaza de Armas in Cusco. Some do not charge any commission for Travelers Checks. However, public merchants will most likely charge you a 10% commission for payments made directly with Travelers Checks.
To know the official exchange rate, click here: FXCurrency Converter
- Can I use my US ATM card and other credit cards in Cusco?
Cusco and most of Peru accepts mostly Visa cards and now regular ATM cards to withdraw cash. Once you make a cash withdrawal on your Visa credit card you might start paying interest immediately. You are better off bringing a Visa debit card so you don't have to pay any interest.
In restaurants, up to an 18% service charge is included in the bill if you pay by credit card. If you pay in cash there is no fee.
For safety purposes, it is a good idea to keep a note of your travellers cheques, credit card account numbers and emergency phone numbers.
- What do I tip in restaurants?
Between 5 and 10%.
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Do I need an electrical adapter?
Peru's voltage is 220, frequency is 60 hertz and plugs A, B, & C. Check what adapters and voltage converters you may need to operate electrical and electronic devices. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Click here for more information: BuyTravelConverter.com
- What is the weather like now?
- What time is it in Peru?
Click on the World Time Server to know the current time.
- Converting to metric
To convert just about anything to anything else, from length, temperature, speed, volume, weight,
to clothing sizes and more, click on OnlineConversion.com
RESPONSIBLE TOURISM - TRAVEL CODE
Remember that what makes Latin American travel so enjoyable is the sense of adventure, the lack of time pressure and the resiliency of its people, among other characteristics. This also comes with a great deal of uncertainty and spontaneity in the day-to-day interaction. Please take this opportunity to challenge yourself to deal with ambiguity, which is part of adventure, part of this culture, part of any cross-cultural experience, and ultimately part of nature.
Adapted from http://www.andeantravelweb.com/peru/ecotourism/travel_code.html:
As a traveler, you have a responsibility to help ensure that tourism in developing countries such as Peru remains a positive experience for everyone. The following "Travel Code" offers guidelines for low-impact, culturally sensitive and environmentally friendly travel.
LEARN ABOUT THE COUNTRY YOU'RE VISITING
- Start enjoying your trip before you leave by tapping into as many sources of information as you can.
- To get the most out of a trip, seek out lots of information – not just the obvious sources like guidebooks. Try reading some classic and contemporary literature of the country. The internet is a fantastic resource.
- Try to check out the behavior and dress codes that will be expected of you, especially when visiting religious sites, markets, rural communities and even restaurants.
- Learn a few phrases in Spanish before you travel. Even better, take a short language course. A few basic words will go a long way to improve the quality of your interaction with local people. We recommend the services of SpeakGlobal.net for cross-cultural interaction with Peruvian people and for linguistic support.
MINIMIZE YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
- Take mostly biodegradable products.
- Help preserve local wildlife and habitats by respecting rules and regulations, such as sticking to footpaths, not buying products made from endangered plants or animals.
- Recycling is extremely limited in Peru. Opt for drinks in glass bottles as these tend to be re-used.
- Use only biodegradable soaps and shampoos while camping but don't use them directly in the water as they won't decompose.
- Batteries are one of the most damaging products to leave behind.
RESPONSIBLE PHOTOGRAPHY
- Don’t treat people as part of the landscape, they may not want their picture taken. Consider the feelings of local people, ask first and respect their wishes.
- You may find that sometimes people will ask you for payment for the photograph to be taken. This can have lots of implications, it’s worth bearing them in mind. You may think that paying for pictures is a way of putting money into local hands, but it can encourage begging especially amongst children. However, if it is obvious that the locals have dressed up in traditional clothes only to have their photos taken, negotiate a price first before taking a photo. In colorful markets such as Pisac in the Sacred Valley it may be more appropriate to buy something from the store-holder such as fruit or vegetables rather than paying for taking a photo.
- Often the best way you can take photos is to offer to mail them a copy. Many locals will be thrilled to receive a photo of themselves.
- Avoid giving children sweets for photos; again it encourages begging as well as being bad for their teeth.
- Flash photography can damage works of art – check if it’s okay first.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
- Making a difference is easy. You just have to pack a few items of second hand clothes (for all ages), toys or school equipment such as books, pencils, pens, crayons, paints and paper. We'll ensure that they are distributed to the right people or schools in the villages surrounding Cusco. If at the end of your trip you no longer have a need for your sleeping bag, rain jacket or walking boots we'll find a trekking porter who will be more than happy to accept them.
- Another easy way to make a difference that is quick, free, and from the confort of your computer, is to go to TheRainforestSite and RainforestCare2. For each daily click you preserve acres of rainforest. Sponsors of the site run with the cost. To make sure you remember to click every day, you can make one of these two sites your browser's homepage.
MonthMin TempMax TempMin Temp Max TempRainfall
Min TempMax TempMin Temp Max TempRainfall (°C) (°C) (°F) (°F) (mm)January 7 20 4568 163
7 20 4568 163February 7 21 4570 150
7 21 4570 150March 7 21 4570 109
7 21 4570 109April 4 22 3972 51
4 22 3972 51May 2 21 3670 15
2 21 3670 15June 1 21 3470 5
1 21 3470 5July -1 21 3070 5
-1 21 3070 5August 1 21 3470 10
1 21 3470 10September 4 22 3972 25
4 22 3972 25October 6 22 4372 66
6 22 4372 66November6 23 4373 76
6 23 4373 76December7 22 4572 137
7 22 4572 137“Against all odds—rain, cold, winds—we had room service and
were served dishes that beat a 5 star hotel! Popcorn started dinner the first night, followed
by soup and trout with fresh vegetables. Unreal! Breakfast included pancakes and omelets! And the food would only get better everyday, from sophisticated dishes to more sophisticated dishes. Our cook and his helpers would magically get to the site ahead of us, take out their basic and crummy equipment, place everything on the ground of any shelter they found, and start peeling and chopping vegetables, cooking, stuffing and decorating.
A spontaneous synchronized “Ohhhhhhhhh” would come out of our mouths
every time the food arrived.”
Tours for the Contemplative Traveler
Tel : 1- (561) 212 9173
Fax : 1- (561) 482 3218
P.O. Box 272998
Boca Raton, FL 33427 - USA
Peru@SpeakGlobal.net
www.PeruHereNow.com
