Weather and Climate
Cusco has two seasons: the dry and wet season. The dry season begins in April and lasts until October. Days are generally sunny at this time of year, while the nights can be cold. The average daytime temperature is between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 60 Fahrenheit), while nighttime temperatures can drop to below zero (below 32 Fahrenheit).
The wet season is warmer with higher average precipitation and runs from November to March. Daytime temperatures range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (60 to 68 Fahrenheit), while nighttime temperatures are a little higher compared to the dry season. While temperatures in Cusco are far from tropical, when the sun shines temperatures can easily exceed 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit). Whatever season you arrive, do not forget sun block as there is little wind during most of the year and the sun is very strong at this level of altitude.
Currency
The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol. Although you can sometimes use U.S. Dollars in stores and restaurants in Cusco, it is not guaranteed. Therefore, it is advisable to always carry soles on you. You can exchange your money in many places including the airport, in banks, or in currency exchange companies. You can also use your credit/debit card at ATMs across the country (there is often a fee to use a foreign card at Peruvian banks to withdraw money).
Spanish Language
You do not need to be fluent in Spanish to come to Peru, but it is good to learn some basic words and phrases, such as how to ask for directions, how to order in a restaurant, or how to ask for something in a store.
Age Restrictions
To travel independently on our tours you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits, however, all travelers are required to fill out a medical questionnaire and consider their health before participating. Our tours are also available to children over the age of 7 who are accompanied by an adult.
Guides
All of our guides are educated in the field of tourism, have received first aid assistance training and are fluent in English. We also have guides who offer tours in Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Portuguese. All guides have excellent knowledge about local flora and fauna as well as Peru's history, geography and culture.
Do children or infants pay for the train ticket?
Infants of 0 and 2 years old do not need a train ticket and must be seated on their parents.
However, if you decide that your children will be seated, you can pay the fare of a child between 3 and 11 years old which is 50% of the price of the ticket.
How much luggage can I take on the train?
Only one handbag or backpack with the same measures allowed in the cabins of the aircraft is allowed: 8 kilos (11 pounds) maximum.
Dimensions: 50 centimeters long by 40 centimeters wide and 25 centimeters high.
How long is the train journey from Ollantaytambo station to Machu Picchu?
The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
The train ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas is considered among the best short train routes in the world, so enjoy it.
How long before I should be at the train station?
Unless you need to get a copy of your lost ticket, in which case you will have to be at least 1 hour before; You can get to the train station 30 minutes before your train departs.
How long does it take to get from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station?
It will take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Ollantaytambo . If you are coming on your own you must take the buses to Ollantaytambo, from the Pavitos street in the Historic Center.
However, the best way to make a trip to Machu Picchu is on an organized tour, which includes transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
How far in advance should I buy my train ticket in high tourist season?
The high season in Machu Picchu occurs in the months of June, July and August.
If you want to get train tickets for these dates, like the Machu Picchu tickets; You must buy them 2 months in advance.
However, the high season of trains is considered between April 1 and November 14 and from December 21 to 31.
