I wanted to do the 1 day hike from km 104 to Machu Picchu in August. I've already made my hotel reseveation at MP (Inkaterra). While they offer an excursion to hike from km 104, they charge over $500 per person just for the entrance fees and guide. This seems overly high. Can someone recommend a guide if I want to book the hike separately?

We had a WONDERFUL hike from KM104 to MP! I highly recommend it. (We were there March 4, 2008)

Check carefully what is included... train fares, bus fares, trail permit, MP entrance (one day?). Remember that the guide also pays fees, has train fares, etc... That's part of what makes it expensive!

Our guide was known as Cocoaman -- he chewed cocoa leaves and played an Andean Flute as we "trudged" along the trail -- quite strenuous at times.
We made our arrangements thru Andean Treks -- they have an office in Massachusets and in Cusco, and I liked being able to call and ask questions.

We purchased our own train tickets (upon my request which did have some consequences...) I recommend letting them purchase your tickets!!! There is no upcharge on the train costs. For guide for 2 people, $400 per person includes one day guide and hike, lunch, RT train tickets, bus tickets (3 ways...), trail permits (must be arranged and purchased in advance!), and MP entrance for one day (that gets confusing... you use the ticket the next day)....

I also really enjoyed that we were not with a group. It would have been less expensive with a group. Another couple or single person would have been fine. But I don't know if I would have enjoyed being in a "line" of 8...

We stayed at Inkaterra --- what a treat!
Hike plus Inkaterra plus MP -- major highlight of our trip.

I hope to post pictures eventually....

Oh, you might email Percy Salas Alfaro for info on hiring a private guide, or perhaps be your hike guide himself. He was our private driver in SV, and could have guided us on the trail (he must therefore be licensed to do so...)... I just didn't realize that. He speaks very good English and is wonderful! I'll try to find his email and post it back to you.

Good luck.

4everywhere - how difficult is this portion of the Inca Trail? Hubby and I are walkers/light-hikers.

We're 47 and 52,and in pretty good shape. There are a few areas or stretches of stairs that might get anyone winded, but there is time to rest frequently and a few shaded reststops/huts along the way. I think it is an easy hike overall and very worth it. we were there in rainy season-- i was gratefull for the partly cloudy to overcasst day.

i would do it again. winaywana was terrific. i never tired of ruins!!

Thanks, 4everywhere. Sounds like something we can manage.

Unfortunately Andean Treks responded that they are moving offices and unable to help- anyone else able to recommend a 2 day tour company that will let me book my own hotel?

Hello butterfly,

be sure to check the availability of trail permits at

http://www.andeantravelweb.com/peru/...ilability.html


I'm not sure if Percy can help you, but you might email him with a request and state that 'Jackie suggested that he might be able to guide you -- but wasn't sure...,' Our guide was Cocoaman, but i don't know how to contact him.

percy salas alfaro email: (i think)[email protected]

good luck

OOPS ---- typo in previous post

private driver / guide Percy Salas Alfaro email is

[email protected]


I am really enjoying looking at my pictures from Peru. What a great culture and environment to visit!!!

Good luck to all with your planning.