Frequently Asked Questions – Tunqui Expeditions
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Here you’ll find answers to all your most common questions in one place.
Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and ensure a smooth experience. More info: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu FAQs
Have a question we haven’t answered here?
Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
How many days do I need to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek?
It’s very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before starting any trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to allow your body to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the sights before starting your trek.
Suggested activities before your trek:
Pre-Trek Briefing
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the night before your trek. The briefing lasts approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please coordinate another time via email, phone, or by visiting our office.
Paying the Remaining Balance in Cusco
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation may not be confirmed.
We greatly appreciate if you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. ATMs along Avenida El Sol dispense both currencies.
You can also pay via credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but note that a 5% service fee applies via Niubiz or PayPal.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
Duffel Bag (Gear Bag)
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry it along the trail and deliver it to your camp.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in
Maximum weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and personal items.
Can I store my luggage with you?
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel (most hotels offer luggage storage) at no additional cost.
However, please do not store valuables in your suitcase. Keep items like credit cards, electronics, and passports in your hotel safe. Request a detailed receipt, as insurance companies may require proof of value in case of loss.
For added security, seal valuables (like credit cards) in a signed envelope before storing them.
Hotel Pick-Up
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs are located on steep hills or pedestrian-only streets, which may make luggage transfers difficult.
We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group Tours
Group tours bring together people from different backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than others, and everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the guide will decide, in consultation with the group, whether the change is feasible.
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
The return from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry—we handle everything!
- From Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes.
- In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will provide your tickets with boarding time. Be at the station 30 minutes in advance.
- The train ride takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Upon arrival, our Tunqui Expeditions representative will meet you at the station and transfer you back to Cusco (1.5 hours).
- Depending on your hotel’s location, we may use a smaller vehicle (Hyundai H1 or Sprinter) to drop you off more efficiently.
Strikes and Protests
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may disrupt transportation or tours.
Roads and train tracks can be blocked. We always try to maintain your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing the night before.
In extreme cases, tours may be canceled. If changes or cancellations are necessary, our Operations Team will coordinate with you directly.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will make decisions accordingly.
Lost & Found
Please take care of your belongings during the trip.
You are responsible for your personal items at all times—whether in transport, tents, or restaurants.
Double-check your space before leaving any area to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
