SAS Travel Peru - Inca Trail to Machupicchu Licensed Specialist Operator

Inca Trail to Machupicchu Licensed Specialist Operator

Leaving Frequency

As this package includes the 4 day Inca trail trek you must ensure there are still permits available and so you need to click on this link http://www.sastravelperu.com/english/
program/339/inca-trail-classic-4-day/ to see current availability of inca trail permits or AVAILABILITY & BOOKINGS.

Price Information

US$ 744.00

Please Note

Prices are per person based on double / Triple occupancy.
Single room supplement available . US$110

Is it for me?

INCA TRAIL & CUSCO - 8 Day

" 4 Day Inca Trail Trek, Pisac, Ollanta & Magic Cusco " DAILY DEPARTURES

Availability : Daily Departures
Group Size : Smallest groups only 12 travellers on most trips.
Shared Service with English speaking tour guides
Minimum: 2 participants.
Price & Value Unbeatable prices for unforgettable memories.
Grade of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.

Difficulty

Grade of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.

Transport

Bus and Train

You are here: Multiday Tours & Packages > Classic Inca Trail & Cusco 8 Day

Classic Inca Trail & Cusco 8 Day

Special Offer

Free entrance to the presentation of Kusikay.
KUSIKAY specializes in creating plays that integrate elements from the theater, circus, dance, music and live folklore, presenting outstanding pieces that allow the audience to get to know the ancient Peruvian culture. This time in our second season, we are pleased to present the production of a fabulous story, Paukartanpu, inspired in the traditional feast of the Virgen del Carmen or Mamacha Carmen, which takes place every year from the 15th to the 19th of July in the province of Paucartambo, Cusco. The play is performed just a few blocks from Cusco’s Main Square, at the Teatro Kusikay, with state-of-the-art technology and a capacity for 455 people. It features 30 first-rate actors…the best of Peru to the whole word!.

As this package includes the 4 day Inca trail trek you must ensure there are still permits available and so you need to click on this link http://www.sastravelperu.com/english/
program/339/inca-trail-classic-4-day/ to see current availability of inca trail permits or AVAILABILITY & BOOKINGS.

Program Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

Reception in Cusco airport and Transfer to your Hotel in Cusco , Rest and acclimatize as you are now at 3,400 mts above sea level. If you are feeling up to it..Optional Afternoon: At 13:45 pm Guided Cusco City Tour : Koricancha " Sun Temple" , Cusco Principal Cathedral, Saqsayhuaman Inca Complex,Tambo Machay,Qenqo and Puca-Pucara. Overnight Hotel Marqueses.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Cusco Pisac Urubamba Ollantaytambo

At 08:45 am Sacred Valley Tour with a Buffet Lunch in Urubamba, we will visit the Typical Pisac Market, 2 hours guided walk into the Pisac Inca Ruins Complex, Ollantaytambo and Chincheros. Returning approx at 18:45 pm to Cusco , Overnight Hotel Marqueses.

Day 3: FREE DAY TO EXPLORE THE MAGICAL CUSCO, SAN BLAS,

Free Day to relax in Cusco and preparing your pack for your Inca Trail trek Adventure. Optional River Rafting or Mountain Bike Tour in Moray, Maras and Salineras US$ 45 per erson p ;Return to the Hotel Overnight. Marqueses Hotel.

Day 4: PISKACUCHO Km 82-PATALLAQTA- CUSICHACA CANYON- WAYLLABAMBA- AYAPATA 3 STONES - Vamos Amigos !!

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Day Trek At 06:00 am a spectacular early morning drive through the Sacred Valley takes us to our trailhead at Km. 82 Piskacucho After meeting our staff and porters you will set out, crossing a footbridge to hike a gentle two hours down the Urubamba canyon, and then visit imposing sculpted Inca farming terraces and the settlement of Llaqtapata on the banks of the Cusichaca side river. We then climb a short way up the Cusichaca valley to Huayllabamba, where we camp.

camping

3300m/10857ft

2680m/8817ft

12 km approx

6-7hours

Day 5: AYAPATA 3 STONES, LLULLUCHAYOC, DEAD WOMAN`S PASS, PACAYMAYO, RUNCURACAY, SAYACMARCA, CHAKICOCHA

The Inca Trail trek adventure We climb the steep-sided Llullucha valley past a rushing stream and through enchanting subtropical woodland. Crossing the rim of a small plateau, we find ourselves in the puna, the treeless grasslands of the high Andes. The trail traverses an open slope opposite mighty mountain crags as we ascend to the first and highest pass, Warmiwañusca (4,200m). Here we encounter spectacular views of the trail ahead to the second pass, and look back to the sweeping snowpeaks Huayanay and valleys We then follow the trail to the floor of the Pacaymayo valley, where we camp for the night.

BLD

camping

4200m/13,800ft

3000m/9870ft

16 km approx

7-8 hours

Day 6: Wiñay Wayna

The Inca Trail trek adventure This morning, we pick up an Inca stairway and ascend again past the small Inca site of Runkuracay. As we reach the second pass, the landscape opens onto spectacular new views to the snowpeaks of the Pumasillo range. We descend to the ruins of Sayacmarca ( Inaccessible Town), an intricate labyrinth of houses, plazas and water channels, perched precariously on a rocky spur overlooking the Aobamba valley. The Inca trail, now a massive buttressed structure of granite paving stones, continues along the steep upper fringes of the cloud forest through a colorful riot of orchids, bromeliads, mosses and ferns. At the third pass pinnacles topped with Inca viewing platforms overlook the archaeological complex of Phuyupatamarca (Cloud-level Town).Pausing to explore the maze of Inca stone towers, fountains and stairways that spills down the mountainside here, we begin a long descent through ever-changing layers of cloud forest. An Inca stairway partly cut from living granite leads us finally to our camp by the ruins of Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), the largest and most exquisite of the Inca Trail sites.

BLD

camping

3750m/12,337ft

2700m/8883ft

10 Km approx.

5-6 hours

Day 7: Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes

nca Trail, Machupicchu, Cusco An early morning hike takes us an hour across a steep mountainside through lush, humid cloud-forest of giant ferns and broad-leaf vegetation. Suddenly we cross the stone threshold of Intipunku (Sun Gate) and encounter an unforgettable sweep of natural beauty and human artistry -a backdrop of twisting gorge and forested peaks framing the magical city of Machu Picchu.

We complete the final leg down the royal flagstone walkway, past outlying shrines and buildings and into the heart of Machu Picchu, where we spend the rest of the morning with a guided tour of the highlights and some individual exploring among Machu Picchu's multitude of hidden nooks and corners; after your guided visit in this unique sanctuary you will have a free time for picture or exploration in your own. In the early afternoon a bus takes us down to the foot of the mountain to the small town of Aguas Calientes where we will have our last meal together in the Hostel Viajeros , then at 6:00 pm we will board a train for 2 hours to Ollantaytambo Station and from there a private bus bring us back to Cusco; arriving around 9:00 pm : Night in Marqueses Hotel (Breakfast and Lunch Included)

BL

Day 8: Adios Cusco

Adios Cusco Magìco Free morning then transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, Arequipa, Puno ( Juliaca ) or Puerto Maldonado.

What is Included:

  • Transfers In and Out to the airports
  • 3 Nights in Hotel Marqueses Cusco with Buffet breakfast included
  • Tourist transport in all Tours and Transfers
  • 4 Day Inca Trail Trek ( Optional 4 Day Lares / 5 Day Salkantay Trek if Inca Trail Permits are not available.)
    All included Tour in Machupicchu
  • Cusco City Tour, Train Tickets, buses tickets and English speaking guide
  • Sacred Valley Tour with a Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
    Bus down to Aguas Calientes

What is not Included:

  • Lima-Cusco / Cusco Lima Flight Tickets , quotes available on request
    Airport Taxes us$ 6 per person / per flight.
    Cusco Tourist Ticket (130 soles approx $45 ) includes Optional Cusco Folk Dances and Music at Cusco Art Center.
    Koricancha " Sun Temple" ( 10 soles) nor Cusco Principal Cathedral ( 25 soles) required for City tour)
    Personal porter to carry your items ( sleeping bag, mattress and clothes for 9 Kg $ 60 for the entire trek )
    Meals when not indicated.
    Hot springs 10 sole entrance

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

  • If you do not have domestic flights and would like a quote please contact Soledad and advise of your interest so she can confirm date availability immediately and send you a booking form

    OPTIONAL :
    Upgrade to Delux room in Hotel Marqueses special $40 per person instead of $60 if requested well in advance price based on Double basis 2 person sharing room.
    Up-grade to Vistadome Class Train Coach for Machu Picchu tour $ 36 per person

    Extra Porter for 9 kilos personal items : Inca trail – From April 1st 9 Kg Porter $ 60
    Sleeping bag to hire for $ 20 for entire trek.
    Trekking poles to hire $ 10 each
    Back pack to hire $ 20

    Accomodation in Lima
  • "Double Room" Imperiale Residence us$74 / Melodia Hotel us$50 Embajadores Hotel us$75 / Casa Andina us$ 85.
    Note: Late bookings of this tour could incur an extra cost if only expensive flights are available: Please check this at time of interest in package providing your exact dates and international flight arrival details.

    Upgrade to Delux room in Hotel Marqueses $ 40 per person on Double basis room.
    Up-grade to Vistadome Class Train Coach for Machu Picchu tour $ 45 per person
    UP-GRADE Accommodation in Aguas Calientes:
    Inkaterra Hotel us$ 290 per person
    Sanctuary Hotel Machupicchu us$390 per person
    Sumac Machupicchu Hotel us$ 275 per person
    Machupicchu Inn us$ 70 per person
    Presidente hostel us$ 40 per person
    Santuario Hostel us$ 50 per person
    Gringo Bill Hotel us$ 40 per person

Recommendations

  • When requesting availability for this tour please indicate your exact international flight details. If you do not have domestic flights and would like a quote please contact Soledad and advise of your interest so she can confirm date availability immediately and send you a booking form.
    Packages/ Multiday Tours SAS rep is Soledad:
    email: soledad@sastravelperu.com
    skype: sastravelcuscoperu

Please note

  • OPTIONAL : Start on Day 3 the 5 Day Salkantay-Machupicchu Trek for the same total price as it is an extra night on trail instead of 3 nights in Hotel Marqueses.( Please check Availability before you book and request itinerary )

Frequently Asked Questions

  • NOTE : If you would prefer to do a Adventure day tour instead of a City Tour (also since the costs to visit some of the City tour sites Koricancha and Cathedral increased recently then you may like to consider

    *Horseriding if you still want to see the 4 Archaeological sites above Cusco Saqsayhuaman Inca Complex,Tambo Machay,Qenqo and Puca-Pucara
    White water Rafting in the Urubamba river.
    Mountain Biking tours to Maras Moray and the famous Salt mines.
    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?
    What is Included:
    Lima Cusco / Cusco Lima Airline Tickets
    Transfers In and Out to the airports
    3 Nights in Hotel Marqueses Cusco with Buffet breakfast included
    Tourist transport in all Tours and Transfers
    4 Day Inca Trail Trek ( Optional 4 Day Lares / 5 Day Salkantay Trek if Inca Trail Permits are not available.)
    All included Tour in Machupicchu
    Cusco City Tour, Train Tickets, buses tickets and English speaking guide
    Sacred Valley Tour with a Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
    Bus down to Aguas Calientes
    What is not Included:
    Airport Taxes us$ 6 per person / per flight.
    Cusco Tourist Ticket (130 soles approx $45 ) includes Optional Cusco Folk Dances and Music at Cusco Art Center.
    Koricancha " Sun Temple" ( 10 soles) nor Cusco Principal Cathedral ( 25 soles) required for City tour)
    Personal porter to carry your items ( sleeping bag, mattress and clothes for 9 Kg $ 60 for the entire trek )
    Meals when not indicated.
    Hot springs 10 sole entrance


    Where are the Departure points for our TREKS?
    There are various pickup points for safety and to help reduce the amount of time in going to numerous hotels.( Please be ready)

    The standard meeting point is at the Plaza Regocijo or the Plaza Cusipata at 5.00 am. If you are at any hotel in San Blas area, please wait for us in front of the Church of San Blas for your transfer at 4.40 am. If you are at Hotel Niños 1 on Calle Meloc or Hotel Niños 2 in Calle Fierro, please wait for your bus at 5:10 am. If you are staying at Loki Hostal, please wait for us at the corner of Meloc & Arcopata (at the steps going down) at 5:10 am.
    If you are at a different hotel far from the meeting point that is not listed, we will discuss the pick up procedure at the Office and “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

    How much does the sleeping mat and sleeping bag weigh?
    sleepmat weight = 1 kg
    sleeping bag weight = 2-2.5 kg

    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?
    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. 65% of our travellers hire the extra porter. 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 staff) SAS provide a duffle porter bag at the briefing the night before of your hike. The common amount of porter strength is 9 kilos per person. 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?
    Believe me when I say that MOST people who come into our offices for the first time have that concern. 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.

    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.

    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 really no chance at all of a cancellation of a trek, by us or by the INC (Park Office). Even under extreme weather circumstances there will be no cancellation
  • we just have to take cover and let the storm pass. The INC or SAS Travel cannot be held responsible for the weather you end up getting, but we can make sure that the trek goes on. During the heavy rain season, it is likely that you will see some rains while walking.

    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?
    The special 4th night 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.

Booking Information

  • To Confirm your Package Reservation just please send us by e-mail or fax a Booking form with US$ 300 down payment per person with Visa or Amex Cards, Western Union money transfer is also accepted.

Terms & Conditions

  • SAS Travel Terms & Conditions 4 Day Inca Trail to Machupicchu
    4 Days / 3 Nights Minimum 8 person 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:__________________________