Machu Picchu Tours local guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Machu Picchu Tours

Inca Trail Porters at km 82 with the Machu Picchu Tours logo

Yes, absolutely. We are a fully legal and recognized travel agency in Peru. Operating under our official business name, Machupicchu Tours & South America E.I.R.L (Tax ID/RUC: 20605872329), we are an Officially Registered Tour Operator by MINCETUR (Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism). Furthermore, we are fully licensed by the Regional Government of Cusco (DIRCETUR), ensuring our operations meet all national safety and quality standards.

Booking directly with an authorized local operator guarantees that your money supports the local economy and that you are dealing with the actual experts running your tour. You can verify our credentials (RUC: 20605872329) directly through Peruvian government portals. We provide formal confirmations and transparent, secure payment processes for every reservation.

You will be in the hands of passionate, local experts. Our founder is a professional guide with 14 years of active field experience, ensuring that every itinerary is crafted with deep firsthand knowledge of the Andes. All of our guides are fluent in English, certified in first aid, and dedicated to sharing the rich history of the Inca civilization.

Due to strict daily visitor limits set by the Peruvian government, we strongly recommend booking your tour at least 2 to 3 months in advance. If you plan to hike the Inca Trail or visit during the high season (May through October), booking 5 to 6 months ahead is highly advised to secure your permits.

Yes, all our standard Machu Picchu tour packages are all-inclusive. This covers your official entrance tickets to the archaeological site, round trip train tickets (Expedition or Vistadome, depending on your choice), bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to the citadel, and guided services.

Yes, this is mandatory. You must present the exact, original physical passport that you used to book your tour. Digital copies or expired passports are not accepted by the government authorities at the entrance of Machu Picchu or at the train stations.

Both are optional extra hikes inside the citadel that require separate, advance tickets.

  • Huayna Picchu is the famous, steep peak you see in the background of classic Machu Picchu photos. It takes about 2 hours round trip and is a thrilling, narrow climb.

  • Machu Picchu Mountain is higher, offering panoramic views of the entire sanctuary and surrounding mountains. It is a wider, less steep trail but takes about 3 hours round trip.

The train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail) have a strict luggage policy. You are only allowed to bring a daypack or small backpack weighing no more than 5 kg (11 lbs). We recommend leaving your large, heavy suitcases securely at your hotel in Cusco, as you will only need essentials for your trip to Machu Picchu.

The dry season in the Andes runs from May to October, offering the best chance for clear, sunny days, though it is also the busiest time. The rainy season is from November to April, with February being the wettest month (the Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance). However, the rainy season offers lush, green landscapes and fewer crowds.

Cusco is located at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, while Machu Picchu is actually lower at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet). We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before any demanding treks to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals on your first day, and drink traditional coca tea.

As a locally based agency, we continuously monitor the situation in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. In the event of unforeseen circumstances like train cancellations or strikes, our operations team acts immediately to reorganize logistics, arrange alternative transportation, or adjust your itinerary to ensure you still have a safe experience.

If you are doing a standard train tour to Machu Picchu, you only need a moderate fitness level to walk around the archaeological site for a few hours. However, if you are booking multi day treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay, a higher level of physical stamina and cardiovascular fitness is required.

We offer secure online payment gateways for our international clients. We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and online platforms like PayPal. A deposit is required to secure your government tickets, with the remaining balance due before your tour begins.

Tipping is not included in the tour price and is entirely optional. However, it is a customary practice in Peru to tip guides, drivers, and porters if you feel they provided excellent service and enhanced your experience.

Yes! As a direct tour operator, we have the flexibility to tailor your experience. Whether you want to add a visit to the Rainbow Mountain, explore the Sacred Valley, or upgrade your hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes, our team can design a personalized itinerary that fits your schedule and travel style.