Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu September 13, 2011

by: , Australian -
4.5/5stars
September 13, 2011

I'm a 28 year old Aussie travelling with my sister and I've been really impressed with Inca Trail Reservations through my whole Inca adventure. Shortly after booking online, I was contacted by my personal account manager. She was very helpful and informative; keeping me updated every step of the way. The personal online accounts system is also very easy to use and fantastic for keeping track of all my documents. My account manager was there to help organise everything, from transfers, flights, all passes and accommodation. I ended up booking the accommodation above their office in Cusco. The “stay with us” accommodation is basic, but exactly what you need; warm, clean, hot shower, secure and in a great location for the sights. It was also really convenienton the first morning of the trek. Cusco is beautiful and I would highly recommend giving yourself as much time as possible to stay in Cusco to explore all it has to offer.The office staff was also very helpful with booking other tours for our time in Cusco. If you are a compulsive over packer like me, rest assured you can leave whatever you don't need on the trek in secure storage at the office. Our guide came to meet us the night before the start of our trek and to answer all of our questions, which I found very reassuring and very good service. The first day of the trek I was really nervous about my abilities, but the guide was always really patient, allowing us to take as many stops as we needed. He also took the time to explain native flora and fauna the whole way along the trek. The set up at the campsites was better than I expected. The porters had our tents set up for us before we arrived, so we could rest after a hard day of hiking. They even woke us up each morning with hot coca tea! The food was amazing and better than I expected could be cooked in such a remote location. Each meal was at least two courses, with soups and starters as well. I have a number of special dietary needs, which were fully catered for. The meals were all fresh, homemade and better than some restaurant cooking I’ve had before. The trail itself was hard work, but had some of the most amazing sights I’ve ever seen. I would recommend bringing lots of toilet paper, baby wipes and lots of warm clothes to change into at night. The altitude doesn’t affect everyone, but I unfortunately got struck with altitude sickness after reaching the highest peak. The guide was fantastic, giving me lots of remedies, including special teas, smelling salts, mineral drinks and altitude tablets. I would suggest being prepared and taking altitude tablets along the way.Once we reached Machu Picchu it all became worth the hard work, as the morning view of Machu Picchu is one the most incredible things I have ever seen and will never forget. The guide gave us a personal tour of the site before allowing us to have ample personal time to explore. The whole experience of the Inca Trail to is one of the most rewarding and challenging things I have ever done. I’m happy I chose Inca Trail Reservations and I would definitelyrecommend family and friends to do the same.

Natalie

My sister and I booked our trek along the Inca Trail through Inca Trail Reservations via their website. From the get go, the employees were very helpful and pleasant. They organised our transportation from Cusco Airport to our accommodation, which happened to be above their office. This made it very easy and stress free after a long flight. The accommodation isn’t fancy, but is just what you need. It's warm, a great location, very good price and the staff are always there to help. Before leaving for the trek, I was very nervous. The night before we left, our guide came to the office and answered all our questions, which put me at ease. Our guide, Bernie, was very informative and didn't mind repeating things if I didn't understand. During the trek he was very patient and encouraged us when we were thinking of giving up. If doing the trek, I would recommend hiring a porter. It makes a world of difference when you have been hiking for a while. The porters were amazing and always had a smile. They would arrive to the campsites before us and set up our tents. We were very grateful to have somewhere to lie down and relax after a long day. The following morning they would pack up the tents for us and carry them, along with our belongings to the next site. It is definitely worth the investment. The food was amazing! I was very impressed with our cook. We were served a variety of dishes. For example, spaghetti Bolognese, stir-fry, pancakes and even steak. I will never forget this experience. It was hard work and very challenging, but all worth it for the feeling of accomplishment and pride when you finally reach Machupicchu. Out of all the challenges I faced, I found Dead Woman’s Pass to be the hardest. Be ready to work up a sweat. During the trek, I made new friends and important memories. If you are planning to do the Inca Trail , I recommend bringing warm clothing, extra socks and rain gear, you will need it. Overall I had a great time and can recommend booking through Inca Trail Reservations .

Simone - 22 year old Australian

Special Package:

Inca Trail Andean Adventure

Nasca Hummingbird
This 15 Days Adventure takes you to remote places of interest in Peru, such us the amazing Colca Canyon and the enigmatic Nazca Lines. Finish your adventure on top of Machu Picchu after following the Inca Trail. *