FAQS

Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level. We strongly recommend arriving at least two days before your trip to allow your body time to acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy a more comfortable start to your journey.

Yes. Accommodations before and after your journey are not included in the standard itinerary, but your Travel Specialist can assist with hotel reservations, additional nights, airport transfers, and other travel services.

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is required for all Mountain Lodges of Peru journeys. Your policy should include coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation in remote areas, trip cancellation or interruption, adventure travel activities, lost or delayed baggage, and flight delays.

Guests travel with a duffel bag that is transported between lodges, while only a daypack is carried during daily activities.

Mountain Lodges of Peru can provide a duffel bag if needed. Please note that train travel to and from Machu Picchu allows a maximum of 10 kg (22 lbs.) of luggage per guest, including the duffel bag. Additional luggage can be stored at your hotel in Cusco during the journey.

We recommend packing lightweight layers, waterproof outerwear, well broken-in hiking footwear, comfortable hiking clothing, a daypack, reusable water bottle, trekking poles, sun protection, and personal medications. Weather in the Andes can change quickly, so dressing in layers is especially important.

The level of physical preparation depends on your chosen journey. For trekking programs such as the Salkantay Trek, a good level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience, and we recommend beginning a regular fitness routine at least three months before departure.

For the Sacred Valley & Lares Adventure, the experience is more flexible. As a multi-activity journey, guests can choose between cultural and trekking activities, allowing the program to be adapted to different interests and activity levels.

For more information about the physical activity level of any of our journeys, or if you have any questions about which trip is best suited for you, please contact us.

The Andes have two main seasons. The dry season runs from April to October, with generally sunny days and cooler mornings and evenings. The green season runs from November to March, bringing warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, especially in January and February. Mountain weather can change quickly throughout the year.

All ground transportation included in your itinerary is provided from the start of your adventure until your return to Cusco. Airport transfers are not included in the standard program but can be arranged in advance through your Travel Specialist.

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please inform your Travel Specialist of any allergies or dietary restrictions before your arrival.

Wi-Fi is available at MLP lodges and in most hotels and cafés in Cusco. Cell phone coverage is also available during much of the journey, although service may be limited in more remote areas.

Gratuities for lodge staff and operational personnel are included. Tipping your guides is optional and at your discretion. As a general guideline, MLP suggests USD 10–20 per guest, per day for lead guides and USD 5–15 per guest, per day for assistant guides.

Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widely available in Cusco and dispense both Peruvian Soles and U.S. dollars. We recommend carrying a small amount of cash for personal purchases, local markets, and optional gratuities. Additional services at MLP lodges are paid by credit card.

If your flight is delayed, cancelled, or your arrival plans change, please contact Mountain Lodges of Peru as soon as possible so our team can assist with the necessary arrangements. You should also inform your Travel Specialist of any changes to your travel plans.

Our Operations Team is available 24 hours a day throughout your journey. You can call, text, or send a WhatsApp message to our Emergency Customer Representative at +51 979 381 263.