We highly recommend Boutique Hotel Marqueses in Cusco, it is a beautiful and charming Colonial house built at the end of XVI century that has recently been restored and refurbished, located just one block from Cusco`s mayor Plaza. This great location is part of its popularity, close to all of the most important tourist attractions in the famous capital of Inca`s Empire. Well known for its incomparable hospitality and professional service. We can reserve the hotel and transfers you from the airport on your arrival and back on your return, you will enjoy a safe visit, wonderful attention and be pleasantly surprised by the warmth of the Andean Hospitality.
Due to the safe and strategic location you are within easy walking distance of the many historical places, museums, restaurants, cultural, artistic and traditional places of the Imperial Inca City.
SAS Travel Tour Operator & Agency offices are located alongside Hotel Marqueses so we at SAS Travel can assist you at any time.
My wife and I selected Peru for our honeymoon and knew we wanted to hike the Inca Trail and end at Machu Picchu. After doing some research we decided to choose SAS as our tour agency during the trip...and we are so happy we did!
The service from the porters and the chef were wonderful and they made this dream of ours possible.
Fredd and Oscar were our guides and were spectacular. There passion and knowledge was exceptional. They were fun, energetic, kind and professional. Their lectures were entertaining and informative and I truely believe no other company can match their knowledge of this trail, the Inca People and the way of life of the native people. We have been on many world tours and they were the best guides we have had yet!
Thank you for everything SAS!
Haelie and Alex Carter
Weidemann/Harker family
Family-like relationship between guide and porters. A real concern for welfare of everyone - especially the trekkers. Comfortable personal relationships during a strenuous physical adventure. Aldo, our guide was well organized, sincere, prideful of his heritage and very attentive to the concerns of everyone.
Highly recommended ++!!
7-11-10 to 7-14-10.
Student discount of US$40 for use of ISIC student cards if you scan a clear copy of your valid 2010 ISIC card through with your deposit at the time of booking and it is confirmed then; The student permit discount is regulated by the park itself, not SAS Travel;
A Youth Travel card is not accepted by the control of the Inca Trail Park. Trek Price from May 1st 2011:
US$560 (US$40 less with student ISIC card.)
Overview
"... The roads of the Incas were the most useful and stupendous works ever executed by man. " Alexander Von Humboldt
The Inca Trail is the most famous hike in South America – perhaps the world – and a must-do and one of the biggest highlights of your trip to Peru. Best known as it treks through a range of spectacular Inca ruins along its path. The stunning scenery spanning through altitudes in the valley from 2700m to mountain passes of 4200m is breath-taking, with views of snow capped mountains. Finally passing through the cloud forest to arrive to the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu itself . The trek will prove unforgetable not just for the stunning sights but the experiences of being accompanied by the warmth, knowledge and expertise of SAS Travel the Peruvian tour operator who support you in this trek.
SAS Travel is a responsible, reliable and reputable Tour Operator for nearly two decades, offering “high quality tours with an special personal touch” exceeding expectation of hundreds of clients now friends, thanks to a full time dedicated and well motivated proffesional staff, that treat its porters well and with respect, promoting a possitive impact in the Andean communities and pioneers respecting the environment but overall offering the highest possible quality treks and tours services within Peru. 4 times rewarded and recognized by Tourism Ministry Dircetur Cusco.
The Machupicchu Historical Sanctuary was created in 1981, with an area of 32,592 hectares. In 1983 it was designated by UNESCO as both a Natural and Cultural World Heritage site in the western hemisphere.
Is it for me?
It is important to be in good physical condition to make this moderate rated but truly rewarding trek. If you want to visit a number of stunning Inca sites linked by a beautiful stone pathway built in the midst of the most incredible scenery in rising altitudes. A good mix of culture, nature, archaeology and scenic beauty. ..then this is for you! Book early, Get in shape, Get good boots and have fun... !
Difficulty
Distance: 45 Km / 28 Miles Duration: 4 or 5 Days When to go: The best time to visit is April through October, it’s
the busy season (especially June to August), but it’s also the
dry season. Altitude: 2680m/8817ft to 4200m/13818ft Difficulty: "The trek is rated moderate, any reasonably fit
person should be able to cover the route" Temperatures: From minus 4ºC to 28ºC
Note that the Inca Trail is closed February.
Briefing
Meet the night before the trek in the SAS Travel office in Cusco, Calle Garcilaso 270 near the San Francisco Plaza, where you will meet with your group and guide. Here you will be given any rental equipment such as sleeping bags and duffle bags if you have requested extra porter.
the actual time of your briefing (6 or 7pm ) will be confirmed at your check-in at the office 2 days prior to the trek.
... Those snow-capped peaks in an unknown and unexplored part of Perù fascinated me greatly. They tempted me to go and see what lay beyond. In the ever famous words of Rudyard Kipling there was "Something hidden! Go and find it! Go and look beyond the ranges- Something lost behind the ranges. Lost and waiting for you ... Go!" Hiram Bingham, 1909
Transport
Bus to Km 82/ 28miles walk to Machupicchu/ Bus to Aguas Calientes/ Train to Ollanta & Bus to Cusco.
You are here: Inca Trail Hikes > Inca Trail Classic 4D/3N Group Service
Inca Trail Classic 4D/3N Group Service
Last Minute Information
All Inca trail permits have run out until 30 Oct.
The month showing to the left on the calender and the first bold date showing is the first possible date that permits are available. To see if a later date is available click on the calender on the month you are wanting using the arrow to the right and if the date is bold then it is still available if you pay today! or click: Inca Trail Availability 2010
Please note that Inca trail permits are so limited that you must pay for your reservation in the same day you make it to be assured there are still permits available for your party
If this is for any of the first 3 dates shown please call us to ensure your permits
Special Offer
For any Nov dates: Bookings finalised before the 30th of Aug 2010, receive a special offer for Hotel Marqueses Cusco accomodation ...free Up-grade from Standard to Delux room. INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY.- Availability of Inca Trail permits is limited, particularly during high season (May to September) when the number of tourists wishing to walk the Inca Trail is greater than the number of permits available. Whilst we will endeavour to organise an Inca Trail permit for you. (4-5 months before) We invite you to join our Daily Departures tour groups or private tours, fully supported service which are specifically designed for today's budget-minded traveller, welcome for couples, individuals and small groups of friends. Our first class personal service, excellent highly recommended top guides, selected chefs who will indulge with a generous Peruvian gourmet meals (Buffet self service style) and our very well respected and cheerfull porters ... we all are waiting for you!
There is nothing like the feeling of discovery you get when, after 4 days of hiking stone-paved Inca pathways, you finally ascend the last trail, walk to the arch of Intipunku ("Gate of the Sun"), and see spread before you Machupicchu, the beautiful, enigmatic, "lost city" of the Incas. To arrive on foot, as the Incas did, is to step back in time and feel a real link with Inca history. The Inca Trail to Machupicchu is a classic hike. There are few short hikes anywhere in the world that can offer such a mix of jungle and sierra, so many secluded ruins to explore en route, and such stunning mountain views- plus the thrill of culminating at the most famous archaeological site on the continent.
The Inca Trail: There are many trails built by Incas in Peru, but there is one Inca Trail-the one that was the Incas "Royal highway" to Machupicchu. Hiram Bingham, discoverer of Machupicchu in 1911, found the trail in 1915. The highway was traced and explored in more details in 1942 by the Viking Expedition with Paul Fejos 1941
Program Itinerary
Day 1: Piskacucho Km 82, Patallaqta Cusichaka Canyon, Wayllabamba, Ayapata 3 stones. Vamos Amigos !!
Early pick-up from your hotel will begin around 5:00 am. We will meet at our departure point, Plaza Regocijo, by 5:30 to board our private transportation. Make sure you carry your original passport or ISIC card. Our journey from Cusco to Piskacucho takes approximately 3 hours, with many beautiful views of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, Andean towns, and the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. Along the way, we will stop to stretch our legs, use the bathroom, and enjoy breakfast, before continuing on to Piscacucho (2,680 m / 8,790 ft). There we will meet our camp crew and the porters who will carry our belongings during our 35-mile hike. Passports in hand, we clear the official Inca Trail check point, cross a suspension footbridge across the Urubamba River, and begin our trek with a gentle climb. We have three hours on relatively level terrain as we follow the course of the river, rewarded with superb views of Mount Veronica (5,750 m). The easy walk passes through a forest of giant cactus and native bushes. At Miskay we take the trail to the left, ascending gradually to Willkaraccay high above the mouth of the Cusichaca River and across from the Inca town of Llactapata (Terrace Town). Our vantage point is from a flat bluff above the extensive site, which was built as a fort because it commands the entrance to the Cusichaca Valley. The terracing system was used during Inca times for growing maize, a prestige crop that needed irrigation in the dry highlands. After a short rest, we continue another 15 minutes down to our lunch site at Tayaroc. Our path is adorned with native flowers and bromeliads growing in the boulders along the left side, and by majestic views of the mountains in both valleys. Walking times are always approximate, depending on weather conditions, group ability and other factors. After lunch, another 3-4 hours will bring us to the village of Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,840 ft), followed by an uphill climb through woods and along a stream to our first camp at Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,824 ft). You will be rewarded with Te Macho and a buffet dinner. Buenas Noches!!!
BLD
Camping
3,300 m/10,824 ft
2,680 m/8,790 ft
12 km approx
6-7 hours / Ascent up: 620 m
Day 2: Ayapata 3 stones, Llulluchayoq, Dead woman`s pass, Pacaymayo, Runkuracay, Sayacmarka, Chakicocha.
After breakfast, we depart from the Ayapata camp around 7:00 am. This is our longest day, but one rewarded with spectacular views down several valleys and up to the surrounding snow-covered peaks. We will put in a 5-hour hike to reach our lunch camp in the Pacaymayo Valley, then another 3-4 hours to our night camp at Chakicocha.
We begin with a 900-m ascent up to the Warmiwanusca (Dead Woman’s) Pass at 4,200 m/13,776 ft. Along the way, we ascend steeply uphill through the Corralpunku Valley to the Llulluchayoc Zone, where you can see several species of birds. With luck we’ll see hummingbirds, falcons and black-chested buzzard eagles. We’ll soon enter a beautiful cloud forest, or polylepis woodland, and the treeless grasslands of the puna. From this point, you can see the highest pass ahead. The path climbs for two more hours along a large number of steps, some of them newly laid to protect the mountain from erosion. You can walk at your own pace, stopping to catch your breath whenever you like. This last hard climb brings us to Dead Woman’s Pass, the first of two that we will cross today.
Once the full group reaches this pass, we take a rest break before beginning a steep descent into the Pacaymayo Valley on the other side. You’ll find that your energy returns as we proceed along this downhill segment toward a generous lunch and rest.
In the afternoon we begin a second ascent, this time to the ruins at Runcuracay, located a bit below the Runcuracay Pass (3,950 m / 12,956 ft). From the pass, in clear weather, you can look back to the Dead Woman’s Pass and forward to a breath-taking sweep of snow-capped peaks. These include the 6,000-m Pumasillo (Puma’s Claw) massif. From here, most of the trail is downhill or gently undulating until we reach the impressive ruins at Sayacmarca.
After some exploration, another 20 minutes bring us to Chakicocha (3,400 m / 11,000 ft). This will be our coldest night on the trail, at around +3 degrees C in December and -4 C in June. Tea time and Buffet Dinner.
BLD
camping
4,200 m/13,776 ft
3,000 m/9,840 ft
16 km approx
7-8 hours / Ascent up: 900 m
Day 3: Chakicocha, Aobamba Valley, Phuyupatamarka, Intipata, Winaywayna.
At sunrise, you will catch sight of Sayacmarca back along the trail, perched on the side of one of the many mountains that surround our campsite. Today’s hike is exceptionally beautiful because we will pass the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, Winaywayna and Intipata, and enjoy dramatic vistas of the Aobamba Valley. This stretch of the trail is of well-kept paved stone, still in great condition after many centuries. Your lungs will appreciate the fact that today’s hike is much more down than up, and significantly shorter than yesterday’s.
In getting to Phuyupatamarca (the Town of the Clouds), we will pass through the first of two short, natural tunnels in the mountains. After visiting this site, we will descend about 2,000 stone steps to Winaywayna. If you have not had any knee problems up to this point, you may after this descent. If you have had prior knee injuries, we recommend the use of trekking poles, and perhaps an extra porter, to relieve some of the stress on your joints.
Around mid-day, we will arrive at the site of Winaywayna, which we will explore before completing a short additional hike to our camp site for the night (2,700 m / 8,856 ft). After lunch, we will visit the adjacent site of Intipata with its dramatic terrances.
A number of creature comforts will be available at this camp site. There is a bar and a small gift shop, and best of all, hot showers for a small fee. There will also be many more trekkers gathering here, ready for the final hike into Machu Picchu tomorrow. We therefore recommend taking extra care of your personal belongings here. Keep an eye on your daypacks and don’t leave anything outside your tent at night. Tea time and Buffet Dinner.
BLD
camping
3,750 m/ 12,300 ft
2,700 m/8,856 ft
10 Km approx.
5-6 hours / Descent : 700 m
Day 4: Winaywayna, Intipunku "the Sun Gate" Machupicchu, (Waynapicchu) Aguas Calientes, Cusco.
We will get up very early - around 4:00 am - to get to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), overlooking Machu Picchu for the first rays of the sunrise. This will be a hike of 1-2 hours, with significant upward stretches in the last half. You will be hiking in darkness, so a headlamp is strongly recommended.
From Inti Punku, a final easy 40-minute hike will bring us to the entrance to Machu Picchu itself. The trail ends at a series of terraces, which present classic views of the overall city. We will continue on to explore the site, with explanations provided by the trek guide(s). The formal tour will end in the late morning, after which there will be a couple of hours for more exploring on your own, or to just collapse under a tree in the central plaza area.
Additional options: If your legs, lungs and energy still hold up after our four days of hiking, it may be possible to climb the peak of Huayna Picchu, behind the main site. However, special permits are required and they are issued in limited quantities. So if you are interested, talk with your guide(s) at the initial briefing for the trek, and remind them on the third night to make arrangements. If permits are not available, you may instead hike to the Inca Bridge or climb Machu Picchu mountain, both located near the site.
In the early afternoon, lunch will be provided at “Los Viajeros” hostel down in the town of Aguas Calientes. There you will also be able to store your backpack, take a shower and/or look around the town a bit before catching the train back to Cuzco.
BL
Not Included,
2,700 m / 8,856 ft
2,400 m / 7,872 ft ( Machupicchu )
8 Km approx plus exploration of Machu Picchu
6-7 hours / Descent : 300 m
What is Included:
Pre-departure tour briefing, presented by your tour guides
Private bus to km 82 Piskacucho (trek starting point)
Permit to the Inca Trail Trek National Park
Entrance fee for Machupicchu for the day of arrival to Machu Picchu ie Day 4 of tour
Excellent highly recommended top guides and leaders
24 hours Oxygen assistance and first aid kit
2 person per tent (clean spacious dome igloo style tent)
Thick, comfortable sleeping mattress, (Pillows by request)
Dining and kitchen tent, camping tables and stools
11 nutritious, delicious buffet meals with fresh, high quality ingredients, high in energy value and prepared carefully to avoid illness by our excellent cooks(Vegetarian food and specialised diets by request)Combination of International and Peruvian Cuisine 4B,4L,3D
Boiled purified water after breakfast to refill your bottles
Fairly treated porters carry the equipment, tents, food, cooking gear and dining tents
Health Insurance for our porters, cooks, assistants, field crew
Accommodation, food, transport, permits and entrance fees for our porters and cooks
A gentle start to the day with a wake up coca tea kindly brought to your tent
Happy hour with macho-tea and hot drinks every afternoon
3-4 hrs Machupicchu guided tour,
Visit and guided tours in the 6 Inca archaeological sites en route
Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Buffet lunch in Aguas Calientes after Machu Picchu
Free storage for your backpack whilst you go to the hot springs or shop around the village
Free and safe Storage while you are on tours in Hotel Marqueses Cusco
Tourist train return on Day 4 to “0llantaytambo” then a SAS Travel bus to Cusco
Inca Trail Surviver Certificate signed by your guides.
What is not Included:
Down sleeping bag -Minus 8ºC US$20 for 3 nights
Personal porter for 18 Kg US$120 (Entire trek)
Shared porter for 9 Kg US$60 (Entire trek)
Single tent - US$ 30 for 3 nights entire trek.
Trekking poles US$10 each for the entire trek.
Hot shower on 3rd camp (10 soles)
Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes (10 soles)
Energy snacks will be very useful as chocolate bars, dried fruits
Extra drinks
Tips for the trekking crew, guides, cooks,and porters. It`s a tradition
but not mandatory.
We recommend that you bring
Original passport and (ISIC student card if applicable)
Backpack & Daypack (for personal porters we provide a duffle bag)
Warm sleeping bag Minus 5ºC
Lighter style trekking boots with good ankle support
Trekking poles: metal tips are not allowed on the trail
Warm clothes,layers for variable temperature especially at night
Thermal underwear can be worn in the sleeping bag or in cold conditions
Gloves or mittens, scarf , wool socks, woolen hat for cold nights
T-shirts and trekking pants that zipoff to short pants for comfort
Flash light, head torch and extra batteries
Camera and extra batteries
Binoculars
Wear a hat with a broad visor to keep the sun off your face
Sunscreen, and sunglasses
Personal medical kit, insect repellent
Rain Gear: a good rain jacket, rain poncho
Toiletries, toilet paper, small towel
2 litre water bottle, disposable plastic bottles are forbidden in Machupicchu site
Water purifying tablets optional, since we provide boiled water
Bathing clothes for the hot springs for hikers with an extra night in Aguas Calientes (5 Day Special Inca Trail)
Extra money for drinks & tips, souvenirs etc in soles
Emergency money at least 200-300 extra soles
If you don`t have sleeping bags, rain ponchos, trekking poles, water bottle, etc you can rent/buy them from SAS Travel at the office at your check-in 2 days before the trek departure.
Additional options
Down sleeping bag -8ºC US$ 20 (For the entire trek)
Single tent US$ 30 (For the entire trek )
60 Lts Backpack US$ 20 (For the entire trek )
A pair of trekking poles US$ 20 (For the entire trek )
Personal shared porter for 9 Kg US$ 60 (For the entire trek)
Personal porter for 18 Kg US$120(For the entire trek)
Note.- A personal porter carries 18 Kg plus his own belongings, SAS provides a porter`s bag and your hired items at your briefing the night before of your trek -best to book your porter at the time of booking your trek, also reserve in advance the optional items.
UP-GRADING YOUR RETURN from Aguas Calientes to Cusco with VISTADOME TRAIN.-
To Up-grade train return ( with Vistadome Deluxe ) US$36 pp
15:25 pm depart Aguas Calientes – 18:40 to Poroy Train Station
If you want an upgrade train you need to contact us directly on info@sastravelperu.com for this to be done and confirmed to you.
Recommendations
SPECIAL 4 Days/4 Nights Classic Inca Trail Highly Recommended !
EXTRA Night in Aguas Calientes Post -Inca Trail hike:
This package is the regular Group service Inca Trail 4D/3N plus 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes in Hotel Viajeros or similar level of accommodation
It is Highly Recommended: Cost US$25 pp (based on double room accomodation with private bathroom)Dinner & Breakfast included.
ADVANTAGES.-
To allow you much more time in Machupicchu after your guided tour
Gives you the opportunity to climb Wayna Picchu, Temple of the
Moon or walk to Inca Bridge
Relax in the Hot Springs (10 soles) if you like or get to bed early
after a huge day
Visit the renewed Julio C Tello-Machupicchu Museum and the
Botanical & Orchids Garden near Puente Ruinas (old Machupicchu
Train Station)
Avoid typical train problems with afternoon trains in high season
and around important holidays
Typically you will return to Cusco at 9:00 pm but it could be much later or earlier. If you stay the night, you will take the 09.30am train to Ollantaytambo. Once there, you can spend time in the town at your leisure.
INCLUDES:
One night in Viajeros Hotel or similar level accommodation
Dinner Day 4th and Breakfast on Day 5th
Train to Ollantaytambo (or afternoon tourist train with bus
connection through to Cusco upon request)
The am Train leaves Aguas Calientes at 09.22am and arrives
at Ollantaytambo to 11.25am. The tour ends at Ollantaytambo.
It is a lovely place to walk around, to visit the Incan sites and even
to spend the night
There are many public buses and collectivos at the Ollantaytambo Train Station that provide a cheap transfer to Cusco via Urubamba for around 8-10 soles or $3, departing regularly throughout the day
If you choose this overnight option, we will automatically register you for the morning train at 09:00 am
If you would like another option you must indicate this very clearly and receive a clear confirmation.
Euros Traveller Cheques are not recommended to use yet in Peru
Deteriorated US$ Dollar bills are not accepted neither in official banks.
Please note
BEST CAMPING SITES
Our 2 first campsites Ayapata and Chaquicocha are the best campsites from the entire Inca Trail trek, (not crowded and very tranquil sites)
The 3rd night camping is in Wiñaywayna campsite
100% of our groups achieve to this campsite, which is only 2 hours near Machupicchu.
Late bookings are often with Phuyupatamarca camp 4-5 hrs from Machupicchu so book early
Make your Inca Trail reservations (6-5 months) in advance – up to a year if you’re going during peak season. You can only visit with a licensed agency, and spots book up quickly.
YOUR TRAIN RETURN .-
Train return to Ollantaytambo " Ollanta Station" in the afternoon at: 17:00 or 18:00 to Ollantaytambo plus SAS Travel Bus to Cusco return is included
TO UP-GRADE TRAIN RETURN.-with a Vistadome De-luxe Train service at 3.25 pm all the way to Poroy (25 minutes near Cusco - PeruRail New Vistadome Train Station ) $36 pp extra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most (FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions related to the ‘Inca Trail’ trek with SAS Travel
A.- BEFORE YOU GO
B.- ON THE TREK
C.- BOOKINGS & RESERVATIONS
A. BEFORE YOU GO.-
What is included in the price of the tour?
This link shows all the inclusions and what is NOT included in the price of the tour? http://www.sastravelperu.com/english/program/339/inca-trail-classic-4-day/
Where are the Departure points for our TREKS?
We depart from just near hotel Marqueses but we can pick you up from your various hotels as long as you give us clear contact details of your accomodation at your checkin in the cusco office.
we will confirm the pick up time and procedure at the “pre trek briefing” the night before you depart.
Where can I store my luggage while I am trekking?
On the trek/tour, you should only bring with you the things you really want/need and leave the rest of your things with us. SAS Travel offers Free luggage storage for all of our customers. If you have luggage that you wish to leave with us in Cusco then bring it to the meeting point on the morning of the departure. A SAS Travel Rep will take your things to be stored in the Hotel Marqueses (Calle Garcilaso 265- Tèl: 257819), which is right next door to our main SAS office.
You can then pick up your things up from the safe storage in Hotel Marqueses any time after your trek (the hotel is open 24 hours). You must bring the tag given to you as receipt when you first dropped off your items:
What should I pack?
This link shows a list of recommended items:
http://www.sastravelperu.com/english/program/339/inca-trail-classic-4-day/
I don`t have a good sleeping bag. Can I rent one?
YES you can just organise it at the time of booking or book directly in the office on your check-in
Down sleeping bag minus 8º Celcius US $ 20
45 Lts Backpack $ 20
A pair of trekking poles $ 20
Personal porter for 9 Kg $ 60
Personal porter for 18 Kg $120
I don`t have a sleeping mat. Do I need one?
We include in the cost of the tour the loan of a sleep mat for the duration of the trek.
This is a fairly thick bulky mat that weighs 1 kg and we still say if you are travelling with a "thermarest" or technologically advanced type of sleep mat then definitely bring that instead!
How much does the sleeping mat and sleeping bag weigh?
sleepmat weight = 1 kg
sleeping bag weight = 2-2.5 kg
I am on my own, will I have someone to share a tent with? yes another person of the same sex or if you prefer you can pay a single supplement for a tent just for you. This is US$ 30 (For the entire trek )
Will I need any extra money?
YES, so that you can take part in options such as bottle water,drinks,a hot shower on the 3rd night (5 soles), the natural hot springs in Aguas Calientes (10 soles), tips for your trekking staff, souvenirs, snacks in Machupicchu, etc.
You should take at least 300 soles as emergency money that hopefully you will return to Cusco with! Also, for the passengers that are concerned about health, it may be prudent on your part to keep in mind that a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes costs approx US$50 (in the case you need to leave the trail early).
Do the guides speak English?
SAS Travel has high standards for our guides. All of our top guides must be educated in the field of tourism, first aid paramedical assistance and completely fluent in English. Our guides are also one of the most popular aspects of our tours some of them are historians and archaeologists.
How many people will be in my group?
We require 6 person minimum for our treks, indicated dates on web are open groups in which you are welcome to join, sometimes we have groups of 8 passengers. Average 8-12 and maximum 16 with 2 tour guides.
During low season the groups are more likely to small and during high season the groups will likely be full.
The INC has a rule in place that limits the amount of passengers per 2 guides to 16 persons. If we are getting a lot of requests for a date and there are still a good number of permits available, we can easily open up a second group for the same date.
Should I hire an extra porter?
If you have not trekked in altitude before we would suggest your organise the extra porter. Unless you have hired an extra porter you will need to carry your own back pack, sleeping bag and the mattress and water for the day. 75% of our travellers hire the extra porter for 9 kilos. If you would like to have a porter carry your things, one can be hired for US $60 for every 9 kilos ( shared porter, each porter carries 18 Kg plus his gear) SAS provide a duffle porter bag at the briefing the night before your hike. You should bring only what you absolutely need/want on the trek, and store the rest of your belongings in Cusco (see the information on our Free Luggage Storage).
Eventhough if you do hire a porter you will still need a day pack with you so that you can carry such items as your camera, water bottle, snacks ( energy bars, dried fruits, nuts, sweets, remember glucose is a big help and imperative in the hights), sunscreen, sun-glasses, a fleece or something warm and a poncho (during the rainy season or cloudy days) and anything else you will need before lunch as the porters do not walk alongside you. You will meet up with your bag at lunch and then it will be waiting for you in your tent at the campsite.
It is best to put everything up to 18 kgs in one duffle bag if you are a couple or 2 for the porter so that you don’t have 2 large backpacks in your tent. We can provide you with a duffel bag to use. At the final lunch the staff will provide blue sacs to those who hired extra porters for transporting your belongings back to Cusco. Please return it to our main office in Cusco.
Please note that there are fines and notifications if you give an excess of 9 or 18 kgs, so try to under-pack rather than over-pack—if it is overweight at the weigh station, items will have to be removed to reduce the weight.
B. ON THE TREK.-
I am not really an experienced trekker? What if I can’t keep up? How difficult is the Inca Trail?
Most people have that concern but don`t worry. Only in extremely rare circumstances does a passenger need to come back early. You just need to remember that you are able to go at a speed that is comfortable for you. Take your time, pace yourself, and enjoy.
The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike. It's not a technical hike but there are a lot of Inca stairs to walk up and down, and the altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend using a trekking poles...and have an early night before the trek!
Are Trekking poles really necessary?
For this trek more than any of the treks, we DO recommend the use of Trekking poles, especially for those passengers with known knee problems. There are multiple times during the trek that a Trekking poles is handy, be it ascending a mountain or walking down immense sets of Inca stairs. It will help with your balance and reduce the impact on your knees. SAS Travel and the INC ask that you not use trekking poles with metal tips as it damages the trail. You can purchase rubber tips for metal poles from any local camping shop.
How long will I be walking every day? How long is the trail?
46 Km/ 28 Miles
This is an approximate breakdown according to our regular campsites:
Day 1: 12 kilometers (8.6 miles) 6-7 hours Ayapata camp.
Day 2: 18 kilometers (10.9 miles) 7-8 hours (“Dead Womans Pass,” the highest pass of the trek at 4,200m, is on this day and the longest day )
Day 3: 10 km (7.3 miles) at 5-6 hours.
Day 4: 6 Km around 2 hours walk before arriving to Machu Picchu.
You will wake up around 4.30 am, 1 hour to Inti-punku "Sun`s Gate"
The entire trail is about 46 kilometers (27 miles) long from start to finish. If you still want more, climbing Huayna Picchu provides yet another hour and a half round trip. Check for the free passes with your tour guides.
Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Inca Trail?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day spent in Cusco (3399m), taking it very easy and drinking plenty of water is enough for some people but if you can arrange to have minimum 2-3 days in case of any travel disruptions as well then this is what we recomend as there is also so much to do here!. The highest point you will reach while hiking the Inca Trail is 4200m/13818ft. You will sleep at 3340m/10988ft for two nights.
What if I am unable to finish the trail?
In the scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due health issues, SAS Travel will do everything in its power to get you to the nearest civilization and get help or transportation to help. If the issue is respiratory or due to altitude, we do carry at least one tank of oxygen on trek that you will have access to. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense.(Travel Insurance required) There are no refunds in the situation that you are unable to finish though.
Generally if due to altitude sickness people can`t make it over the pass on the 2nd day they come back to Ollantaytambo accompanied by a porter if just mild (or guide if serious) and if they recover from altitude sickness they stay the night here in Ollantaytambo and then take the train to Aguas Calientes the next day ( Day 3) and we look after them in Hostal Viajeros and then they rejoin their group in Machu Picchu early on DAy 4 and continue the tour as normal. the additional costs for this such as train ticket and accomodations is payable by the passenger and usually is between $60 and $100 total and a document for insurance purposes is provided for your claim
Can SAS Travel accommodate my dietary needs? What kind of food will there be?
Not to worry, SAS Travel is able to accommodate many types of dietary needs upon request at the time of booking. If you are a vegetarian, or cannot eat gluten or have allergies to certain foods, it will not be a problem. The meals of our chefs are one of the most popular parts of our tours too, and the quality will not be reduced when accommodating your dietary needs. The meals are served buffet style and you are able to choose what you would like to eat. Your guides will let you know what time the meals will be served.
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes quinua, cereals and vegetable soups, Beaf Lomo Saltado with rice, chicken cacerole, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods as scramble egg, quinua panqueques.
Will I need to bring water?
We recommend that you purchase a 1.5 – 2 litre bottle of water to take with you on the first day. Every night during the trek, we will boil water so you can refill the same bottle every morning before setting out. If you are planning to drink from any streams or waterfalls, we strongly suggest you bring water purification tablets or filters.
Also, you will be able to buy water along the way on Day 1, for the first few hours of Day 2, then again on the afternoon of Day 3, and of course at Machu Picchu.
Are there bathrooms along the way?
Along the trail there are several sites with toilets. Bring a roll of toilet paper. As far as other trash goes, please carry your own trash to each campsite where the porters will pack it up and take it out. Leave no trace! Please do not litter.
Is it OK to bring toddlers on the trail?
If you are thinking of bringing any small children with you, we highly recommend arranging a private tour with us instead of going on a group service departure. That way, you can get the extra attention that you will require from the guide. It should be remembered that it is likely you will have a difficult time as it is, so if you have never done higher altitude trekking with your child before, you’ll want to carefully consider your enjoyment and the enjoyment of the child. Also, it should be kept in mind that the emergency rescue services while on the trek are extremely limited.
Is there a chance that my trek will be canceled?
There is very little possibility of a cancellation of a trek by the INC (Park Office) even under extreme weather circumstances or even in case of a strike there will be no cancellation. The INC or SAS Travel cannot change the date of a trek if there is a general strike. We do everything possible to ensure you get to the trail head to start the trek for the permit date and this means that we must have correct contact details as about 4-5 times a year there is a general strike. This means no land transport is allowed to travel and so the night before the trek /strike date we have to gather everyone together and drive to the trail head area to camp the night before so we make sure that the trek goes ahead.
In the case that a passenger decides to cancel the tour for whatever reason, you will just have to pay US$45 more and we can put you on a train to Aguas Calientes. That way you are still able to use the Machu Picchu entrance join your group for a tour and return train ticket at least.
Is the trail still good during the rainy season? Is it safe?
The trail is perfectly safe during the rainy season. Some people actually like to go during the rainy season because there are fewer tourists. If you are one who doesn’t mind the rain, then we say ‘Go for it!’ You will just have to bring good rain gear and waterproof boots.
What kind of weather can I expect on the trek? Temperatures?
During the “rainy season” (Dec – May), you can expect that it will rain pretty much every day. At the same time, it will also be noticeably warmer at night. The day times will get up to about 25 degrees Celsius, the low will be about 2 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, during the “dry season” (June – Nov) the daytimes will seem strikingly like spring time, with bright and sunny skies, but it will be much colder at night. During the daytime you can expect it to be somewhere in the range of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius and at night it will be as low as 0 to -5 degrees Celsius.
It is always best to dress in layers during anytime of year, really. As you hike, put them on when you feel cold or shed them and put it in your day pack when you get hot.
How many trekkers and trek crew are in a typical group?
For a group of max 16 trekkers our typical trekking staff comprise of: 01 guide, 01 assistant guide, 01 cook, 01 assistant cook, 01 general assistant in charge of setting up and organization of safe campsites and 18 porters or carriers.
If the group is 8 or less then just 1 guide, 01 cook, 01 general assistant in charge of setting up and organization of safe campsites and 12 porters or carriers.
What is the standard procedure when it comes to tips?
Tips for the above mentioned trekking staff are not included in the price of the trek. Tips are optional not mandatory. Generally tips are distributed amongst the trekking staff (except the guide and the assistant guide ) on the third night of the trek at Wiñaywayna camp after the evening meal since these trekking staff will not accompany the group to Machupicchu.
Tips for the Cook, Assistant cook, Coordinator & Porters: On the third night at dinner time someone from the group is usually elected to collect the tips. Please remember to take plenty of small denomination bills in Peruvian Soles. We recommend that the cook should receive about 50% more than the other trekking staff. The money should be paid directly to each individual and not given to the guide, cook or representative of porters.
Deciding how much to tip is always a difficult and sometimes uncomfortable decision. SAS Travel pay our trek staff fairly and treat them with respect and try to provide good working conditions. We think that a tip should not be used to subsidize a poor wage but should be a way to show the staff that you have enjoyed the trek and appreciated the services that they have provided. The tip should therefore be optional and not mandatory. However, if you have enjoyed the service, we recommend that each person in the group contributes between 40 and 50 soles ( US$ 13-16 ) to a “pot” which is then distributed amongst the cook, assistant cook, general assistant and porters. This should ensure that each person will receive a tip of about US$15 and the cook around US$30. Obviously if you want to tip more please do so.
Tips for the Assistant Guide: The assistant guide will accompany the group to Machupicchu and Aguas Calientes, he is incharge of getting the passes for Wayna Picchu climbing. We therefore recommend that you tip the assistant guide at the lunch time on the fourth day in Aguas Calientes at the lunch time in Hotel Viajeros. We suggest that each person in the group tips the assistant guide between 15 and 20 soles. (US$5-7) Again, tips are optional not mandatory and dependent on the level of service provided. Obviously if you want to pay more please do so.
Tips for the Guide: The guide will accompany the group throughout the tour including Machupicchu. We recommend that you tip the guide after the tour in Machupicchu at the time of lunch at Hotel Viajeros in Aguas Calientes We suggest that each person in the group tips the main guide between 18 and 28 soles. (US$8-10) Again, tips are optional not mandatory and dependent on the level of service provided. Obviously if you want to pay more please do so.
SUMMARY: Like in most American countries, tipping is normal practice. If you have enjoyed the service provided by the trekking team we would recommend bringing between 70 and 85 soles ( US$ 25-30 ) to covers tips for the trekking staff. However if you think that you have received poor service you are under no obligation to pay a tip. The trekking team will soon get the message. Please pay tips in cash and do not pay in kind such as in beers etc. We have tried to be as clear as possible about tipping but we understand that this is a complicated issue when many different cultures and lifestyles come together.
The procedure and amounts listed above have been written in conjunction with our guides and trekking staff. We accept that not all of our clients will be in agreement with this information. It is important that you tip the amount that you feel comfortable with. Please try not to let the procedure stress you or cause anyone to feel badly towards other members of the group who wish to pay less than the recommended amount or decide not to pay a tip at all.
Will I be able to witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu?
You will be able to catch the sunrise no matter what. The one thing that may affect your final morning is what campsite you stay at on final night, and therefore, the distance you have to hike to Machu Picchu.
Will I be able to climb Huayna Picchu (300 mts)
If you want to climb Huayna Picchu, please coordinate this with your tour guide as the park has restricted schedules for climbing times and the number of people who can climb per day at 400 and so require permits. We try to get permits for interested trekkers but they can only be obtained at the main entrance on the day of entrance. We have asked the INC to put aside permits for Inca trail trekkers as since they walked 4 days to get here should be given priority. The trail to HuaynaPicchu is safe is about an hour and a half round trip.
How long am I able to stay at Machu Picchu? How I will I get down to Aguas Calientes?
You will have a guided tour of the ruins that lasts approximately 2-3 hours, after which time you will have 2-3 hours more to spend on your own. You can climb Huayna Picchu or just explore. After the guided portion, your guide will give you a bus ticket for the transfer down to Aguas Calientes. You can take the bus anytime you like. We will be serving a buffet lunch at the Hotel Viajeros starting at 1.45 pm so that is something to keep in mind. If you choose to skip the lunch, then you just need to be down in time for your train ride.
Kumuka Passengers are not given the bus ride down to Aguas Calientes. You will have to decide whether you want to make the 45 – 60 minute walk down or take the bus (25 minute ride) at your own expense. If you choose to take the bus, we can arrange this for you for US $7.
What is the Special 4th Night in Aguas Calientes? Is it for me?
Inca Trail 4D/4Nights Group Service is the regular Inca Trail 4d/3n plus 1 night (based on double/triple accommodation) in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town) in Hotel Viajeros or similar level accommodation. It is a great way to take advantage of the relaxing jungle ambiance of Aguas Calientes. There are more trails to venture on for further exploration including the Putukusi Trail, where the summit offers an amazing view of the immense site and Huayna Picchu Mountain. Or to wind down after a grueling trek, soak in the natural hot springs for 10 soles. The soothing, naturally heated waters are said to possess healing properties.
For those doing the special offer, the train leaves the 5th morning at 9.00am and arrives at Ollantaytambo at 10.00 am. Unless you specify a different train time in your booking form then that is the train that we will put you on. This train will only go as far as Ollantaytambo, where there are local buses to bring you back to Cusco for the price of 8-10 soles. You can also choose to take a taxi for around 60 soles. You will get back to Cusco at around 11.30 am.
If you decide that you would like to stay a little longer still, there are a variety of different departure times to choose from. Just let us know if you would like the morning, early afternoon, or evening train.
As this offer has become very popular, during high season the Hotel Viajeros may be fully booked and so we would utilize other accommodations of similar quality. In this case, we will still include your dinner at the Hostal Viajeros.
What time will I be back in Cusco? Can you explain the train service a little more??
In 2007, Peru Rail (which has a monopoly on the train transport and is the only possible transport in and out of Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo) did not have enough services to meet the demand of visitors to Machu Picchu. Therefore, they added an extra service from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo at 8.30 pm and mandated that all Inca Trail Trekkers would have to take this 8.30 pm train because they were only using a one way ticket.
First preference for train service was offered to people who wanted round trip tickets (i.e. non trekkers) and so it caused many problems for agencies that had to explain this to their customers who had booked months in advance. Agencies are not allowed to buy one way tickets more then 6 days in advance of the date of travel. However, Peru Rail has increased their services in 2008 by 60% so there should not be an issue with getting train tickets.
In 2008, during the week of Easter celebrations, there was so much demand for train services that departures at 9 pm and even 10 pm were offered as well as early morning services at 11 am to ensure that people actually got back to Cusco on the 4th day. This affected the last day in Machu Picchu greatly. Some people had to take an earlier train, and so, missed out on some of their free time in Machu Picchu, while others had a late train at 9 pm, arriving back in Cusco at 1 am.
Many of our travellers request a later train so they can spend the full day at Machu Picchu, to climb Wayna Picchu or to visit the natural hot baths (for which the town Aguas Calientes is named). We therefore generally reserve a late afternoon train around 5 - 6 pm for our travellers. Occasionally it is direct to Cusco, but otherwise the service is to Ollantaytambo with a private bus transfer onwards to Cusco. But still, these reservations are only confirmed by Peru Rail 6 days in advance. During high season and holidays, when demand exceeds availability, we will always try to obtain tickets for an earlier service rather than one late at night for a more comfortable arrival to Cusco.
Often passengers decide to stay a further night in Aguas Calientes instead of returning on the 4th night. This is fine, and we can coordinate your accommodation, but any changes you would like to make with train tickets must be made in person with Peru Rail in Aguas Calientes with proof of identity (i.e. your original passport). They will charge a fee for change of dates and coach options will be according to availability.
C. BOOKING & RESERVATIONS.-
What are the benefits of doing a private trek?
One of the main reasons why the private option is sought after is because you do not need to worry about which dates we have departures set for or if our departures have enough space. Your only concern is whether or not there are permits available. You can choose almost any date that you want if permits are available.
In addition to the convenience and flexibility in booking, the private option provides a more personal trip experience for your group. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. The guide will focus all of his energy and attention on your group. You can also be more specific about the foods that you would like to be served during the trek. It is a truly wonderful experience to go on such an amazing journey with only your friends and loved ones. Ask a SAS Rep how you can arrange your own private tour.
What is an ISIC card? How can I use it to get a discount?
ISIC stands for “International Student Identity Card” and is the internationally accepted form of student identification. The INC accepts ISIC for discounts.
The discount that is offered isn’t a SAS Travel discount, but is actually offered by the INC and SAS Travel passes the discount on to you. For that reason, it absolutely necessary that we have a scan of your card “in hand” when we go to purchase your permits. If you didn’t send us a copy of it along with the initial booking, then make sure to note on the registration form that you have one and will send the scan as soon as possible so that we know to try and wait before we purchase the permit.
Am I able to change dates after the initial reservation?
The only time that you can change your dates with no penalty charge is if we have not purchased your permit yet. Usually we try to purchase the permits, at the most, a few days after your deposit is paid—depending on the urgency of the situation of course. The only time that we don’t get them within a few days is if you have reserved a date more than 6 months ahead of time.
If we do not already have your permit you can change your date. If we already have your permit, the penalty to change is US $150 and there must be availability for the date which you want to move to.
What if do not have my passport right now?
The INC requires a valid passport to issued your permit to the trail,best case is to organize your new passport in advance if that is the case. There is the possibility due to the limits of spaces on your requested date to book with your ald passport number, them we can do a paperwork to change it, ( extra of $15pp)
Can I pay for the entire tour up front?
Usually we only charge the deposit of your Inca Trail to the card (done without commission fee) to confirm your booking. This deposit and the details completed on your booking form are used as a guarantee for the balance and other tours. The balance is paid on your arrival to Cusco in cash. If you choose to pay with credit card you need to pay 5% commission. With Traveller’s Cheques there is a 3% commission.
The prices of the tours are for cash payment. You can withdraw US $ out of the ATMs, which there are plenty in Cusco.
If you like, some people prefer to pay the full balance by Western Union or Bank just before starting their travels to avoid carrying cash or spending time finalizing things when they arrive so let us know if you would prefer this.
I have forgotten how to pay for my reservation so I can confirm. How can I pay online It is very important that you pay for your reservation immediately after making it online as permits could run out if you do not do so immeidately. You normally just follow the instructions at the time but if you have let some time lapse then please immediately enter this site to make your deposit of $200 per reservation
https://www.multimerchantvisanet.com/posweb/index.aspx
it will take you through online payment instructions step by step!
Please use the deposit code as your reservation code
When you enter the website
www.multimerchantvisanet.com/posweb/index.aspx
a page will appear.
1. Where it says Category you choose Travel Agencies
2. Where it says Merchant you choose P Sas Travel
then
3. click on Enter
The next page that opens must read
P Sas Travel
4. Where it says Purchase Number you write your deposit code
5. Where it says CardHolder Name you write your Name exactly as indicated on your Visa Card
6. Where it says Account Number you write your Visa Card Number
7. Where it says Expiration Date you write your Expiration Date
8. Where it says Transaction Amount you write the amount of your deposit
9. Where it says CardHolder E-mail you write your Personal Email …..
Then if all is correct and you have read the conditions sent in other email you click on Pay
Visa then will verify your details and send you a message on the site and an email.
Resend this email to us so we can confirm to you.
ALTITUDE or MOUNTAIN SICKNESS, SOROCHE.-
Altitude sickness is serious and can ruin your trip. The biggest mistake you can make is to fly directly to Cuzco (3326m/10,910ft) and expect to hike the next day. Give yourself a few days to adjust to the altitude first.
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), altitude illness, hypobaropathy, or Soroche, is a pathological effect of high altitude on humans, caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxigen at high altitude. It commonly occurs above 2,400 metres (approximately 8,000 feet). Acute mountain sickness can progress to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).The causes of altitude sickness are not fully understood. The percentage of oxygen in air remains essentially constant with altitude at 21% up until 70,000 feet (21,330 m), but the air pressure (and therefore the number of oxygen molecules) drops as altitude increases — consequently, the available amount of oxygen to sustain mental and physical alertness decreases above 10,000 feet (3,050m). Altitude sickness usually does not affect persons traveling in aircraft because the cabin altitude in modern passenger aircraft is kept to 8,000 feet (2,440 m) or lower. A superficially related condition is chronic mountain sickness, also known as Monge's disease, occurring only after prolonged exposure to high altitude. An unrelated condition, often confused with altitude sickness, is dehydration, due to the higher rate of water vapor lost from the lungs at higher altitudes.
Those who ascend rapidly to altitudes greater than 2500m (8100 ft)
may develop altitude sickness. In Peru, this includes Cusco ( 3326m)
Machupicchu (2400m) and Lake Titicaca (3820m). Being physically fit offers no protection. Those who have experienced altitude sickness in the past are prone to future episodes. The risk increases with faster ascents, higher altitudes and greater exertion.
Symptoms may include headaches,nausea,vomiting,dizziness,malaise, imsomnia and loss of appetite. Severe cases may be complicated by fluids in the lungs (high-altitude pulmonary edema) or swelling of the brain (high-altitude cerebral edema) If symptoms are more than mild or persist for more than 24 hours (far less at high altitudes), descend immediately by at least 500 meters and see a doctor.
To help prevent altitude sickness, the best measure is to spend two nights or more at each rise of 1000m. Alternatively, take 125mg or 250mg of acetozolamide (Diamox) twice or three times daily starting 24 hours before ascent and continuing for 48 hours after arrival at altitude. Possible side effects include increased urinary volume, numbness,
tingling,nausea,drowsiness, myopia and temporary impotence.
Acetazolamide should not be given to pregnant women or anyone with a history of sulfa allergy. For those who cannot tolerate acetazolamide, the next best option is 4mg of dexamethasone taken four times daily.
Unlike acetazolamide, dexamethasone must be tapered gradually upon arrival at altitude, since there is a risk that altitude sickness will occur as the dosage is reduced.
Dexamethasone is a steroid, so it should not be given to diabetics or anyone for whom taking sterorids is not adviced. A natural alternative is gingko, which some people find quite helpful.
When traveling to high altitudes, it´s also important to evoid overexertion, eat ligh meals and abstain from alcohol.
Altitude sickness should be taken seriously, it can be life threatening when severe.
1.- Check in: AVAILABILITY to ensure we have a confirmed date for your departure. (if we don`t show a confirmed date for your departure preference, please choose one that is available or phone us)
2.- Click on: To REGISTER Choose the Program: INCA TRAIL 4 Day Group Service.
Fill in with complete personal details of each person in separate reservations and this information will come on screen.
3.- Please check your email immediately for full details of your reservation, a copy of the Conditions and payment instructions and your personal reservation code ( purchase number 9 digits) to use when confirming your payment will automatically be sent to the email you used.
HOW TO CONFIRM YOUR TOUR:
(Without a down payment your Inca Trail Trek is not confirmed)
1.- Please ensure you have read and understand our Terms & Conditions.
2.- ON-LINE Booking Deposit Payments only with a Visa card.- Make your deposit of US$200 per person according to the directions on this page. Please use your reservation code as Purchase Number.
Click on Step 3: To CONFIRM for Payment Options and follow the step by step directions shown there or in your email.
The fastest way to CONFIRM a Booking & Permits for Inca Trail is to make a VISA card downpayment through the Secure ON-LINE VISA System:
www.multimerchantvisanet.com/posweb/index.aspx
Choose a Merchant:
Category : Travel Agencies
Merchant : P SAS Travel Peru
(US$800 is the maximum amount to pay on-line with a Visa card in each transaction.)
3.- You should receive an email from Visa that confirms that your payment was successful. The subject will read Confirmacion de Compra but It must have an AUTHORIZATION CODE WITH 6 NUMBER / LETTERS ex. Authorization Code: L24276 you must IMMEDIATELY resend it to: office@sastravelperu.com
4.- Check carefully that it does not say "incorrect cardholder" or "operation denied" as this means the payment was not successful. If the payment is urgent then ring us on Tel:+51 84 249194 or and give us the details over the phone for us to try and assist you quickly.
5.- If the payment has not gone through and is not urgent... send it to us anyway but indicate that it was unsuccessful and try again rechecking each instruction. We will contact you with options until all is finalised.
Booking payments with Master Card and American Express.- Please send us by e-mail to: office@sastravelperu.com an scanned copy of a BOOKING FORM with all details requested,
If you are more than 2 person booking please send us one booking form that will guarantee all of you hiking in a same group.
You will receive a final Confirmation via e-mail of your trek and permits in few hours.
Terms & Conditions
SAS Travel Terms & Conditions 4 Day Inca Trail to Machupicchu
4 Days / 3 Nights Minimum 8 paerson group
1. You must advise SAS Travel of any medical problems or allergies. You need to be in good physical health and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 65, then you will need to present us with a current medical certificate.
2. You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the service of the guide or tour
please advise the guide in that moment so he can resolve any problems as soon as possible.
3. You must pay for your tour in full by 12:00 noon, 2 days before your departure.
Payment of your balance in the Cusco SAS office is requested in cash. US $ is easier but if you choose to pay in soles the rate charged is generally 3.0 soles = US$1 You can withdraw US$ or soles from the many ATM machines. Generally more economic on debit cards.
If a final payment is not made by 12 noon the day before any tour or service such as the Inca trail, the total balance will be charged to the credit card + the 5% commission.
4. The student US$40 discount for use of student cards is regulated by the park itself, not SAS travel. All student ISIC cards are validated by the control of the park and only accepted if you scanned a clear copy of your valid 2010 ISIC card through with your deposit at the time of booking and it was confirmed. A Youth Travel card is not accepted by the control.
5. You must carry your Original passport and valid ISIC card (if applicable) on the trail, If you do not take the correct passport as indicated in your permit, the control will annul your permit and refuse you entrance to the trail. If for any reason, you organize a new passport after we have purchased your permits, you must bring the old passport with you, or if this is impossible advise us in writing with a scan of the old passport and your new passport for us to present to the INC with official documentation to avoid problems. Administration charge for this formal change is $15.
6. Unless you hire an extra porter you need to carry your back pack, sleeping bag and the mattress. if you want an extra porter (for the full trip) you must have booked this with your original booking form as they require permits as well.
Change of dates is not possible after a permit has been processed. It is non transferable nor refundable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that we do this because we are prohibited to re-sell your spot after you have cancelled.
7. a.- Cancelation of tour once a permit has been registered up to 6 weeks in advance incurs a loss of $200. non refundable
7. b.- Cancelation of tour within 6 weeks to 2 weeks of departure incurs a loss of 60% of total tour cost...
7. c.- Cancelation of tour within 2 weeks to 5 days of departure incurs a loss of 80% of total tour cost...
7. d.- Cancelation of tour within 5 days - 36 hours of departure incurs a loss of 90% of total tour cost...
however we can organise an alternative tour to visit Machu Picchu by train with overnight in Aguas Calientes joining your group and completing the tour as normal from here.
7. e.- Cancelation of tour within 36 hours of departure incurs a loss of total tour cost...however we can organise an alternative tour to visit Machu Picchu joining your group and utilising your permit, completing the tour as normal from here within this cancellation penalty charge if train tickets are available . The only extra charge is the cost of the train to Aguas Calientes. US$ 46 or with a Vistadome upgrade US $71.
8. The full package includes: transport to cusco. ) the train return depends on train company availability. The train company only confirm the train schedule option to trekking agencies a few days before a trek for one way tickets from Aguas Calientes in high season. The train schedule offered could be anywhere between 1.40pm and 9pm and usually requires a private bus connection from Ollantaytambo to Cusco provided by SAS Travel. Our preference would be a train departure between 4pm - 6pm but needs to have enough seats available to accomodate the group and usually this is not an issue except around large festivals such as Inti Raymi, Independence day and Easter. To accommodate individual preferences there is an option for people to buy their own train tickets according to their preference directly through the train company website and contact us to indicate the confirmation of trek without train return = less $40 per person off total trek price. This is a recommendation that we strongly advise for high season dates. Also doing the overnight option with a morning train to Ollantaytambo is much easier for us to confirm train tickets and we also recommend you take this time to enjoy Aguas Calientes and charming Ollantaytambo .
9. "5 days-4 night -Special Viajeros" $25 extra with overnight in Aguas Calientes includes 08:53am train to Ollantaytambo on day 5. ( unless you specified at the time of booking a alternative afternoon train option )
We need to know in advance if you do not want the “train return on the 4th day” as the train tickets will automatically be reserved for the standard afternoon train on the 4th day if no other preference has been indicated and confirmed. Changes to schedules or dates when train tickets have been finalised incurs an administration charge of $10 per ticket. At times a change of date may only be possible with an upgrade and so the difference in price would need to be paid.
10. If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are paid at the expense of the passenger. if you fail to complete the tour due to illness we will assist you to meet with your group at machupicchu to recommence your tour at that point, although there will be no refund from the original payment.we will, however, present you with a document to certify illness and which can be used to present to your travel insurance company.
11. SAS Travel will take all reasonable care in providing service to our clients to avoid accident, illness, loss of personal property and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. SAS Travel cannot however be responsible for any action or event that was unforeseeable or unavoidable. We also cannot be responsible for improper acts by clients or other third party. You are totally responsable for your own personal property and rented equipment.
12. SAS Travel does not take responsibility for additional costs due to unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal items, etc. It is the clients responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
13.- In extreme cases when “ Inca trail to Machupicchu” is declared closed for safety reasons SAS travel can replace your trek with an alternative trek such as 4 day Lares trek or 4 day Choquequirao trek and your booking deposit money will be used for this or if you prefer an alternative tour such as 4 day lake Titicaca package or Jungle trip etc.to give you some of the many options.
14. When paying the balance in Cusco, there will be a * 3% comission if you choose to use travellers cheques and a 5% comission for use of credit card.
I have read and accept the conditions
Signature: _____________________ Date:__________________________
