kwren

We saw this Groupon trip listed and it piqued our interest. We've never been to South America and thought it might provide a good intro to one area. We usually travel on our own, but have enjoyed the rare tours we've taken over the years. Any feedback for us?

http://www.groupon.com/deals/ga-gate...on&d=deal-page

They allow 3 hours at Machu Picchu. Is that enough time or ridiculously short?

Elizabeth_S

Although it's an easy trip to do on your own - t's a great price - where do you see only 3 hours at Machu Picchu? Many people leave very early from Cusco and return at the end of the day which should give you about 5-6 hours in MP.

kwren

You can ask a question on the Groupon page and someone asked how long the group would be there. The answer was 3 hours. Would you consider that way too short a time?

I heard there is an altitude medication. Do most people recommend that?

Elizabeth_S

As mentioned I think for a day tripper it's usually about 5 or 6 hours in MP - I might follow up on that Groupon comment and ask Gate 1 directly as this is a pretty standard tour on their website and 3 hours sounds low.

http://www.gate1travel.com/south-ame...0daffpe14.aspx

It looks like the deal is basically discounting the air portion

http://www.gate1travel.com/south-ame...0daffpe14.aspx

Re altitude medication - it's called Diamox (I think it's basically a diuretic). We took it and had no problems with the altitude. The biggest thing we were told was not to drink caffeine or alcohol in the first 24-36 hours. But it is somewhat unpredictable who will be affected by altitude. A marathon runner might have problems and a pack a day smoker might sail through. Have you been at altitude before?

bsteele09

Great trip. Basic hotels. I stayed at the Jose Antonio in Cuzco. Everything you need is included. Great way to see Peru. Bonus is the first day you land in Cuzco you go to the Sacred Valley, which takes you down in elevation and will help if you are feeling it. Remember, Cuzco is actually a higher elevation than the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. People think you go "up" to MP but you don't. You can take Diamox but I would just drink Coca Tea instead. Most hotels offer it for free. And stay hydrated. You will love it.

kwren

Thanks for the info!

I've been to the Jungfraujoch in Switzerland and had no problem, but of course that was only for a few hours.