Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Lying in the tent listening to the glacial avalanches on Salkantay was pretty awesome and of course getting that first sight of Machu Picchu.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rolando was great, so passionate about his Incan heritage and very knowledgable. He loves telling the story of the many sites you visit on this trek and really brings it alive. With regards the walking and the altitude, he was always looking out for everyone in the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It was colder than I expected in the evenings so if debating whether or not to take the 3 or 4 season sleeping bag or the down jacket - take the warm stuff!! The early start for Machu Picchu is definitely worth it - by 9am the place is packed!

Most Inspirational Moment

Stunning scenery and culture and experience overall in Peru! I thoroughly enjoyed the town of Cusco as well - very impressed! Amazing to actually visit Matchu Pitchu which I have wanted to do for years!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the high altitude which is upon you quickly due to Cusco sitting at 3,400. The 10kg weight limit when you start that actual Inca Trail is extremely strict so be prepared. Take light clothes and lots of layers. It does get very cold camping. I was very grateful for my down jacket in the evening.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting up to see the sunrise on Salcantay Mountain, the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at the sun gate, and returning very early the next day seeing it shrouded in mist only to see it clear to give magnificent views.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Bobby was a great leader. He had great knowledge on both Peruvian culture and Inca history. On the last day in the Sacred Valley he went out of his way to arrange extra sight seeing visits.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't under estimate the huge variation of temperatures during the day! In the sun it can be really warm but in the evenings and night it gets extremely cold! You need a down jacket and warm sleeping bag and lots of extra layers.

Most Inspirational Moment

The most inspirational part of my trip was camping at the bottom of Salcantay and then the following morning trekking up the Inca Chiriasqa pass. Though to be fair the whole trip was brilliant.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tomas Llancay was one of the best leaders that I have had so far on all the trips I have done. We always knew what we were doing and had great advise on what we could do on our free days. Huge knowledge on Inca sites, flora and fauna. Its was also lovely to see the encouragement he gave to Sebastian (our second leader) which allowed Sebastain to talk to us about some off the site we visited on the trail, which Sebastian did very well. He also want out of his way to help my partner find a perfect location for him to propose to me, with out me finding out.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you have a lovely warm sleeping bag as I was very greatful I had mine as it can get very cold on some of the camp sites.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the top of the 3/4 passes.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Outstanding

Advice for Potential Travellers

JFDI. (I was just turning 65 so don't be put off)

Most Inspirational Moment

The six days hiking getting to Machupicchu was fantastic, the high mountain views and varying landscape was incredible, the numerous Inca ruins were a treasure to see, varying wildlife , birds and flowers added to the adventure and the thought of finally seeing an anceint Inca stronghold was enough inspiration for all to complete the trek.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wilfredo was an excellent guide, very knowledgable in all things Inca, good understanding of individual hikers needs, all ways willing to help and resolve issues and knew the mountains well providing excellent camp sites with fantastic views

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go with an open mind , expect the unexpected, the weather and temperatures can vary in the mountains so go prepared. check the packing list but only take essentials due to weight restrictions

Most Inspirational Moment

Crossing the near 5,000 metre high Incachiriasca Pass in perfect weather, with superb views of nearby Salkantay piercing the blue sky.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I have enjoyed seven other long treks, mostly in the Himalaya in Bhutan, Nepal and India. Tomas was the most professional, knowledgable and enthusiastic guide I have walked with.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do this trek asap but take some diamox with you in case you have any problems with the altitude. That applies equally to any trek out of Cusco.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the pass at 5000m and looking across at Mount Salcantay was incredible and worth the slog to the top. Another highlight for me was reaching Macchu Picchu via the sun gate at about 4pm, it really felt like we had earned that view after 7 days walking and it was fantastic to arrive at that time of day when it was far quieter.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tomas was absolutely fantastic. His knowledge, enthusiasm and sense of fun made the trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't underestimate how much the temperature can vary on a daily basis. Pack layers and bug spray, plenty of bug spray!

Most Inspirational Moment

Learning about the Inca history

Thoughts on Group Leader

Bobby, our guide was informative, interactive ,passionate about his country, Peru and the history of the Incas. I think small flora & fauna books would be very much appreciated & would enhance the experience.

Most Inspirational Moment

Camping beside Salkantay, walking along the Inca Trail, seeing the Inca sites and, obviously, walking through the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant. Bobby, and the assistant guide Jose, were both excellent. Really passionate and knowledgeable about their heritage, very experienced so I felt well looked after (and safe!) at all times and were really great company.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take clothes for all weathers. We had hot, cold, snow and rain - all within a matter of hours on some days. Take walking poles. I don't normally use them, but they became my most favourite thing on some of the tougher days. Get some level of fitness. It's not essential, but might make some of the harder days a bit easier. Even if it's just a case of you being used to being on your feet for 6+ hours. Pack as light as you can - it'll make organising your bag a bit easier. Take a torch - essential for after dinner. Take books. Not necessarily for the camping as I was generally far too tired to read anything, but for the flights. Having something to read in between flights was helpful. On the trek, keep eating and drinking. It really helps with the altitude and to keep your energy levels up. I took snacks which was good, but you can buy stuff in Cusco before you go.