I am going to Peru this august and did not know that I had to book the Inca Trail months in advance, some travel companies told me that on august it is impossible to do the Inca trail and recommended the Salkantay Trek instead.
I already did a lot of research and found a trek that looks great, nice reputation on the organizer, good price, nice camping gear, good food, etc, but I am a solo traveler and need at least 1 more person to go with me, so please send me a message and let me know if anybody is interested, I really want to trek to Machupicchu.
Premium account Joined: Aug 03 Points: 12930 Posts: 154
Posted: 2008-08-01 01:00:00
I did the Inka Trail in July several years back - are they telling you that it can't be done because of weather or because there are no available spaces? For those who don't know, the Inka Trail, as of 2000, requires permits and the use of an approved tour operator. This is being done to prevent further deterioration on the trail itself which has seen overuse. Having made the trek, I understand the need.
The Salcantay Trail is a day longer and I believe it goes to a higher altitude. Altitude is only a consideration if you haven't been to 14,000 feet before.
My understanding several years ago was that many of the Tour Operators that are located on or around the Plaza de Armas in Cusco have already pulled extra permits and can line you up with a group with a day or twos notice. You need to acclimatize in Cusco for two or three days before you hit either trail anyway, so your best bet might be to try that. The operator I used was Mayuc Tours: http://www.mayuc.com/ They are right on the Plaza.
Hope that helps!
--- Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.
Premium account Joined: Mar 08 Points: 551 Posts: 5
Posted: 2008-08-01 01:50:00
Hi Peru traveler, I was in Peru in June of this year and as long as the weather is Ok it should by no problem to book an Inca trail at Cuzco. There are numerous travel agents there that can organise the trek for you, I was using a company called Andes Path Email apuausangatet@hotmail.com, and i found them to very good but there are plenty of others. Have a look under travel partners in the forum postings or add another posting there. I hope you have a great time and have a wonderful holiday as its a magical place. I've done some travel logs on Peru that may help, and if I can help with any questions please feel free contact me. All the best, Mark.
