FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

The national currency is Peruvian Soles. However, you are often able to use American Dollars in major tourist attractions and for gratuities. Money exchange offices are readily available in all major cities.

The primary language ish. The indigenous language of Quechua is spoken in rural areas. English is spoken in all tourist areas.

For the Inka Trail, click here. For other tours, Apu Andino recommends you book one month in advance, however, depending on availability, we can accommodate a booking two weeks in advance.

Apu Andino requires your passport number in order to purchase trek permits in advance. You will need to travel with your original passport while in Peru.

Yes, but for the Inka Trail only. Apu Andino provides a USD $25 discount for those with a valid ISIC (International Student Identity Card). To obtain this discount, please advise us at the time of booking and provide us with a photocopy of your card

Refer to our Terms & Conditions by clicking here.

Many businesses in Cusco, including Apu Andino, do not accept credit cards as form of payment. Credit card companies such as Visa and Mastercard typically charge an additional rate of up to 7% on top of the purchase price, and charge a large annual fee for businesses in Peru. These additional fees make it very challenging for local businesses to sustain themselves. For this reason, Apu Andino asks its clients to use Western Union to make payments for tours.

Please advise Apu Andino at the time of booking of any pre-existing medical condition(s) such as asthma, diabetes or any other condition that could affect your ability to do a tour or trek. This will assist us to better plan for the trip and ensure you have the best possible experience.

Apu Andino recommends that if you are trekking, it´s most appropriate to bring a backpack. In any event, we will provide you with a duffel bag for all treks. For traditional tours, a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase is adequate. Keep in mind that there are dirt and cobblestone roads in some areas.

Apu Andino recommends that you bring many layers to best accommodate to the wide range of temperatures. During the day if the sun is out, it can be quite hot; on the contrary, early mornings and nighttime can be cold. Trousers that zip off at knee level, t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, fleece and windbreaker / rain jacket are ideal. In addition, be mindful of whether you are traveling in the dry or wet season.

Apu Andino recommends you arrive in Cusco 2-3 days in advance in order to adequately acclimatize to the altitude. Cusco is situated at 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) above sea level.

If you are of moderate fitness you should not have any major problems. If not, it may be to your advantage to do some walking up hills prior to traveling to Peru. Apu Andino´s guides are mindful of each participant´s pace and encourage you to go at a pace most comfortable to you. Apu Andino´s motto is slow and steady, as this will allow you to fully enjoy every step of your experience!

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Yes. Typically, a briefing takes place the night prior to your tour departure at which time you will meet your guide and be provided with a detailed overview of your tour. However, Apu Andino can accommodate to your travel schedule and arrange a time that bests suits you.

Yes. You can rent sleeping bags and trekking poles from Apu Andino, if necessary.

Apu Andino highly recommends using trekking poles as they assist in climbing uphill and provide more stability while descending. However, if you are used to hiking without poles, the decision is up to you.

Yes. It will cost an additional USD $25 to have your own tent.

Apu Andino´s group sizes are typically comprised of 2-8 people. We do, however, arrange tours for larger groups as well.

Yes, all Apu Andino guides speak fluent English. They also speak Quechua ansh.

During the treks, Apu Andino provides you with typical Peruvian food using locally grown produce. The meal plan is well constructed, taking into account how your body digests food at different elevations. While on traditional tours, we will bring you to modern restaurants serving Peruvian gastronomy.

Apu Andino is able to accommodate to your dietary needs, whether you are a vegetarian, or have specific allergies or require gluten-free food. Please advise us of your dietary specifications at the time of booking your tour.

Apu Andino will provide you with drinking water during all treks. We recommend you bring your own reusable water bottle.

Gratuities are not mandatory and are at your discretion. They are something extra to give to the staff and are completely dependent on the experience you have during your tour. The suggested tipping amount for the porters and cooks is USD $8-9 and for guides USD $9-10 per day.

Please send an email to info@apuandinotravelperu.com. Apu Andino typically responds within 24 hours.