GENERAL FAQ´s

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find more information about the tour?

Each online itinerary includes a button at the end, allowing you to download detailed trip notes. These notes provide a comprehensive itinerary, inclusions, and other essential details. Once you’ve confirmed your booking, we’ll send you a pre-departure information pack with important details on visas, vaccinations, and other vital travel information.

What should I pack?

After confirming your booking, you’ll receive a pre-departure information pack with practical details, including a general packing list and any specific items needed for your trip.

What vaccinations do I need?

Immunization requirements vary by destination. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor to discuss necessary vaccinations for your trip. Some vaccines require administration weeks before departure, so plan accordingly. If traveling to areas like the Amazon, anti-malarial medication may be required. Ensure you obtain a vaccination certificate if needed, as some visas require proof of immunization.

Should I bring medical supplies?

Your pre-departure pack will include a suggested packing list, but it won’t cover medications. We advise bringing personal medical supplies for common minor ailments (e.g., colds, diarrhea, blisters). If you take regular medication, bring an adequate supply. Asthma sufferers should carry enough medication, as air pollution can be high in certain cities.

How much luggage can I bring?

Pack light while ensuring you have all essentials. Leave space for souvenirs! You’ll be carrying your own luggage, sometimes lifting it onto public transport, so a backpack or soft duffel bag is more practical than a suitcase—especially on cobbled streets in places like Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno. Check luggage allowances with your airline or ask your travel consultant for details.

Will laundry facilities be available?

Many accommodations offer laundry services, and those that don’t often have nearby options. Bringing travel detergent and a portable clothesline can help reduce the amount you need to pack, especially for longer trips or trekking adventures.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

It depends on your itinerary. Your pre-departure pack will specify if a sleeping bag is required for your trip.

Do I need a visa?

Many countries require a visa before arrival. Once you’ve booked, we’ll send you detailed visa information in your pre-departure pack. Since visa processing times can be lengthy, we recommend applying well in advance.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Standard health insurance policies typically don’t cover you overseas. We offer a comprehensive policy designed for our tours, but you’re welcome to arrange your own—just ensure it covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation, and any adventure activities on your itinerary. We recommend purchasing insurance when booking your trip to protect against unforeseen cancellations. Your Cusco Journeys & Adventure leader will need two copies of your policy, including the policy number and emergency contact details.

Can I access the internet while traveling?

Internet is available in most cities, and your tour leader can direct you to local internet cafes. However, connection speeds can be slow, unreliable, or expensive in some areas, particularly in remote locations.

Will my mobile phone work abroad?

Most major cities have mobile coverage, but check with your service provider to ensure international roaming is activated and available in your destination.

Do I need to pack differently for an activity holiday (trekking, rafting, etc.)?

Yes. Once you’ve booked, we’ll send you a trip-specific packing list. If you’re trekking the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Vilcabamba Trek, or rafting the Apurímac River, we’ll provide all relevant details before your departure. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us via email, phone, or in person!

Traveling with Family – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel with my children?

Absolutely! We offer family-friendly trips to incredible destinations, designed with children in mind. From exploring Peru’s Machu Picchu to encountering sea lions in Paracas, our itineraries combine culture, wildlife, and adventure, making them both educational and fun.

Each trip includes exciting activities for kids and engaging experiences for adults. We provide a minimum age requirement for each itinerary, and while our family trips aren’t strenuous, they do involve some walking, so a basic level of fitness and an enjoyment of exploring are recommended.

What about long travel days?

We understand that long journeys can be challenging for families, so we plan our itineraries to minimize extended travel times. We avoid overnight journeys and break up longer trips with fun activities and interesting sights to keep everyone engaged.

What kind of activities are included in family trips?

Our family trips are packed with diverse experiences, including cultural discoveries and interactive activities with locals. You might find yourself exploring the Sacred Valley’s rich Inca history, horseback riding in Sacsayhuamán, or enjoying activities like kayaking, cooking, fishing, or snorkeling. We also ensure there’s plenty of downtime, choosing comfortable hotels where you can relax in the evenings.

Can we book a private family trip?

Yes! If you have at least two travelers, you can choose from our existing itineraries and book a private tour. For groups of seven or more, we can create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests. Our Private Groups team specializes in designing trips for families, friends, schools, clubs, and charities, offering expert advice on destinations, cultural expectations, and the best travel seasons. We’ll work with you to craft the perfect adventure for your group.

Let us know how we can help plan your family’s next unforgettable journey!

Do I Have to Book Online?

Yes, our website is designed to make booking quick, easy, and hassle-free.

How Do I Know Which Trips Are Available?

We provide real-time booking status for each trip, showing whether it’s open, full, or how many spots are left. Check the ‘Guaranteed’ column—if a trip is marked as guaranteed, it means we’ve met the minimum number required for it to run, but there may still be limited availability. If you need assistance, feel free to call or message our travel experts.

Can I Join for Only Part of the Tour?

Unfortunately, our tours are designed as complete experiences, so partial participation isn’t possible. However, some of our longer tours consist of smaller trips back-to-back, so you might be able to book a shorter segment separately.

Does the Tour Price Include International Flights?

No, the prices listed on our site do not include international flights. However, thanks to our partnerships with major airlines, we can help you find the best deals on flights for your travel dates—just ask!

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

This varies, as we can’t predict when others will book. To secure your spot, we recommend booking as soon as you’ve decided to travel. However, if there’s space available, we do accept bookings up until the departure date.

For trekking tours such as the Inca Trail, Vilcabamba Trek, and Salkantay Trek, we recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance, with a 40% deposit. The final payment can be made up to two days before departure at our Cusco office.

When Is the Final Payment Due?

Final payment is required in full 30 days before your trip departs. If you book within 56 days of departure, full payment is needed at the time of booking. Last-minute bookings require immediate payment for confirmation.

Can I Book Through a Travel Agent?

Yes! Cusco Journeys & Adventure provides a full travel agency service and can assist with your booking.

Is This a Typical Group Tour?

Not at all! Cusco Journeys & Adventure offers a unique style of travel for those who want more than just a typical group tour. Our travelers seek experiences beyond the ordinary—immersing themselves in local cultures and seeing destinations from a fresh perspective.

With highly experienced local guides, private transportation, comfortable accommodations with private amenities, and many included meals, we ensure an authentic and seamless journey.

I’m a Solo Traveler—Is That a Problem?

Not at all! Every year, we welcome thousands of solo travelers. Our trips are twin-share, meaning single travelers are paired with a same-gender roommate, so there’s no extra cost. However, if you prefer your own room, we can arrange a private option for an additional fee—just let us know when booking.

Who Will I Be Traveling With?

Every group is different, but Cusco Journeys & Adventure tours typically attract an international mix of travelers, often from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and North America. Our groups include people of various ages, from adventurous travelers in their early 20s to those 60 and beyond.

We also categorize trips into Travel Styles, ensuring you’ll be with like-minded travelers who share your interests. A diverse age range often enhances the experience!

Are There Any Age Limits?

While we don’t have strict age limits, most of our travelers are between their 20s and mid-60s. Some trips involve activities such as hiking, cycling, and climbing stairs, so be sure to check the trip notes to ensure it’s the right fit for you.

How Many People Will Be on the Trip?

Our group sizes are intentionally small, with a maximum of 16 travelers. On average, groups consist of about 12 people, creating an intimate and enjoyable experience.

Is Cusco Journeys & Adventure Group Travel Right for Me?

If you’re curious, adventurous, and love to explore new cultures through the eyes of a local, then absolutely! Our tours blend iconic sights with hidden gems, led by expert local guides. We handle all the logistics—transportation, accommodations, transfers, and entrance fees—so you can focus on soaking up the experience.

What’s Included in the Trip Cost?

Your trip cost covers everything needed for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, including:

• An experienced English-speaking guide who is local to the region
• Airport arrival transfer
• All transport, primarily private
• Comfortable accommodations
• Sightseeing and entrance fees
• Many meals, as specified in the itinerary
• 24/7 local emergency support
• Specialist local guides where needed
• High-quality equipment for activities, such as trek packs and bikes

How Much Spending Money Will I Need?

Our trip notes provide an estimate of typical costs in the destinations you will visit, and your pre-departure pack includes more detailed budgeting advice. Since many of your essential costs—such as meals, transport, accommodations, and entrance fees—are already covered, you will only need to budget for personal expenses, optional activities, souvenirs, and any extra meals not included in the itinerary.

What’s the Best Way to Carry Money?

We recommend bringing a combination of cash, an ATM card, and a credit card as a backup. While traveler’s cheques are a secure option, they can be difficult to cash in some locations.

• American dollars are widely accepted, but it is best to carry small denominations. Bills should be in good condition, as torn or marked notes may not be accepted.
• Check with your bank regarding international ATM fees and card usage abroad.

Should I Tip My Guide?

Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated. Your tour leader or guide works hard to ensure you have a great experience, so if you feel they have provided excellent service, a tip is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation. You can tip individually or make a group contribution at the end of the tour.

Can I Bring Gifts for Locals?

If you wish to bring gifts for local communities, please choose useful items such as pens, notebooks, or school supplies rather than sweets. The best way to distribute gifts is through an organized and responsible channel, such as a local school or charity.

Handing out items directly to children or individuals on the street may encourage begging and create long-term issues. If you are unsure, ask your tour leader for guidance—they can advise on what is most needed and may suggest purchasing supplies locally to support the community.

Why Do You Use Local Tour Guides?

Cusco Journeys & Adventure is committed to using local tour leaders who know their region inside out. They speak excellent English and provide an authentic perspective—introducing you to local friends, hidden spots, and the best places to eat. Beyond enriching your experience, hiring local guides supports the community by creating jobs and training opportunities.

How Much Free Time Will I Have?

Our trips balance organized activities with free time for independent exploration. Some longer travel days may allow less flexibility, but our itineraries outline how much free time to expect.

Will I Have Time to Explore the Start and End Cities?

Our itineraries are designed to cover key highlights, but if you’d like extra time, we can arrange additional accommodations. We also offer trip extensions, such as a Lake Titicaca add-on after the Vilcabamba Trek.

What Standard of Accommodation Should I Expect?

We use comfortable, centrally located hotels with private amenities. Where possible, we choose smaller, locally run properties over large chains, and some itineraries include homestays for a more immersive experience.

What Will the Food Be Like?

Our local guides know the best spots to experience authentic cuisine, from traditional markets to hidden local favorites. They’ll also help you navigate menus and recommend must-try dishes.

Can You Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, just let us know in advance. While vegetarian and special diet options are available, choices may be limited in some regions where meat is a staple.

How Do I Get to the Start of the Tour?

Many of our tours include an airport pickup—check online or with our travel consultants for details. Your trip will start at a designated hotel, and we’ll provide all necessary meeting details.

Can I Extend My Stay?

Yes, we can arrange extra nights before or after your tour. Let us know your plans, and we’ll provide a quote.

Can I Change My Return Train Ticket from Machu Picchu?

Yes, but you’ll need to visit the train station in Aguas Calientes to request a change. Availability isn’t guaranteed, and an administrative fee may apply. If you switch to a cheaper ticket, the price difference won’t be refunded.

What Type of Transport is Used?

We mainly use private vehicles but sometimes incorporate local transport for a more immersive experience. Some trips involve walking to explore remote or historic areas.

Are There Long Travel Days?

Some days involve long journeys, but we plan our routes to be as comfortable and scenic as possible. In some cases, we use domestic flights to reduce travel time.

What Will the Weather Be Like?

For weather details, check our website or contact a travel consultant. Your trip information pack, sent after booking, will include climate details.

Altitude and Your Health

Parts of your trip will take you above 3,300 metres (11,200 feet), where altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness, or experience.

Before Your Trip

Some medical conditions can worsen at high altitudes. Consult your doctor about any pre-existing conditions and possible medications to assist with acclimatization.

What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness occurs when the body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms usually develop within 6-10 hours of ascent and may include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Disturbed sleep

Severe Altitude Illnesses

In rare cases, altitude sickness can lead to serious conditions:

• HAPE (Fluid in the lungs) – Symptoms include breathlessness, chest tightness, and a persistent cough.
• HACE (Fluid in the brain) – Symptoms include severe headache, confusion, and loss of coordination.

If symptoms worsen, immediate descent and medical attention are required.

Prevention & Treatment

• Stay hydrated – Drink at least 4 litres of water daily.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and sedatives.
• Eat small, frequent meals high in carbohydrates.
• Pace yourself – Walk slowly and take breaks.

When to Seek Help

Monitor your symptoms using a 1-10 scale, with 1 being mild and 10 being severe. If symptoms reach 7 or higher or persist beyond 1-2 days, inform your tour leader immediately. In some cases, they may require you to descend for your safety.