Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning a journey to Peru should be as exciting as the trip itself. To give you absolute peace of mind, we have compiled the most common inquiries our travelers make before, during, and after their expeditions. Below, you will find clear answers regarding our flexible travel modalities, booking terms, and essential destination tips. If you have a specific question not covered here, our dedicated team is always available to assist you.
Booking Processes, Service Modalities & Travel Policies
What is the difference between your Private and Shared service modalities?
Private services offer an exclusive professional guide and specialized transport solely for your travel party, allowing absolute schedule flexibility. Shared services combine you with a select group of international travelers for scheduled excursions, maintaining high operational standards at a competitive value.
How do I book a travel program, and what are the available payment methods?
You can secure your itinerary by contacting our travel design team through our website or corporate channels. We accept secure international bank transfers, major credit cards, and verified local payment gateways like Izipay The user completed the integration of the Izipay payment gateway for a local tourism website. You must send by mail the Evidence of Transaction.
What happens if I need to change my travel dates or cancel my trip?
We offer flexible rescheduling frameworks depending on how far in advance you notify us. While our internal coordination fees can be adapted to new dates, third-party non-refundable fees (such as official Machu Picchu permits and premium train tickets) are subject to the strict policies of government regulations and rail operators.
Are international or domestic flights included in the base price of the itineraries?
No, international and domestic flights are not included in our base prices. However, our logistics team is fully equipped to assist you with flight recommendations and seamlessly synchronize your airport arrivals and departures with your ground transport itinerary.
How do you guarantee official entry permits for high-demand sites like Machu Picchu?
We buy all entry vouchers and circuits directly from the official government platforms immediately after your booking deposit is confirmed. Because spaces are strictly limited by law to protect the heritage sites, we recommend booking several months in advance.
Can I fully customize an existing multi-day itinerary on your website?
Absolutely. Every program displayed on our portal serves as a master layout. We specialize in bespoke travel planning, meaning our team will gladly adjust the routing, remove excursions, or extend your stay to fit your exact preferences.
Are hotel accommodations included in the listed program summaries?
The base price of our programs covers operational logistics, expert guiding, land/rail transit, and official entries. Accommodations are completely customizable; we will curate and add your preferred hotel tier (3-star, 4-star, or luxury boutique) directly into your final personalized proposal.
What is your policy regarding solo travelers or odd-numbered travel groups?
Solo travelers are warmly welcomed. We can arrange single-occupancy private services or integrate you smoothly into our premium shared excursions. Final proposal rates will naturally reflect transport and guiding configurations based on total group size.
Do you offer corporate, family, or group booking discounts?
Yes. For families, corporate retreats, or private groups traveling together, we apply optimized scale pricing. Private transport and dedicated guiding arrangements become highly cost-effective as the number of participants in your immediate party increases.
How far in advance should I finalize my booking with Andean Bear Journeys?
For classic cultural routes, we recommend booking 2 to 3 months ahead. If your itinerary involves trekking peaks, high-season train upgrades, or specific Machu Picchu morning circuits, securing your booking 4 to 6 months in advance is highly advised.
Preparing for the Andes: Health, Altitude & Weather
How do you manage altitude acclimatization (soroche) for your travelers?
Our itineraries are strategically designed by local tourism experts to facilitate natural acclimatization. We prioritize lower-altitude destinations first (like the Sacred Valley) before tackling higher elevations like Cusco city, the high altiplano, or high-altitude mountain treks.
What is the best time of year to visit Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Puno?
YThe dry season runs from May to October, offering crisp sunny days ideal for trekking and clear mountain vistas. The shoulder seasons (April and November) are excellent for bypassing peak crowds, while the rainy season (December to March) showcases lush, emerald landscapes.
What level of physical fitness is required for high-altitude treks like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake?
These specific day-expeditions reach altitudes exceeding 4,300 to 5,000 meters above sea level and require a moderate-to-high physical condition. We strongly advise spending at least 48 hours adjusting to the altitude in Cusco before embarking on these active challenges.
What essential clothing and gear should I pack for my multi-day journey?
The Andean climate varies drastically between day and night. We recommend the «layering system»: breathable base layers, a fleece insulation layer, and a reliable waterproof/windproof outer jacket. Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes, a sun hat, UV sunglasses, and high-SPF sunblock are mandatory.
Is traveling to destinations like Cusco and Puno safe for international tourists?
Yes, the major tourist corridors of Peru are remarkably safe and welcoming. Our agency ensures absolute safety by providing vetted transit networks, professional local staff, and verified hotels. We maintain constant monitoring of regional conditions for your complete peace of mind.
Do I need specific vaccinations or medical clearances before entering Peru?
Standard routine vaccines are recommended. If your broader itinerary includes extensions into the Amazon rainforest, a Yellow Fever vaccination may be required. We always suggest consulting with your personal travel physician regarding high-altitude travel clearances.
What should I eat and drink during my first few days at high altitude?
To help your body acclimate smoothly, eat light, low-fat meals during your first 24 hours, and avoid heavy alcohol consumption. Stay well-hydrated with bottled pure water or sample the traditional local hot coca-leaf tea (mate de coca), a time-honored natural remedy.
What is the currency in Peru, and should I carry cash?
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While premium hotels, fine restaurants, and established shops widely accept major credit cards, carrying small-denomination cash in local currency is essential for purchasing local handicrafts, tipping tips, or buying bottled water in rural villages.
How do weather conditions affect scheduled excursions or mountain flights?
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. If severe weather or heavy seasonal rain compromises safety on high-altitude routes, our operational headquarters will immediately coordinate alternative paths or safely adapt the scheduling of your tour without disrupting the core experience.
Can travelers with limited mobility or physical disabilities visit Machu Picchu?
Yes. While the ancient stone Citadel features thousands of historic steps, specific accessible routing and adapted transport solutions are available. Please notify our travel designers during the planning phase so we can coordinate a seamless private itinerary with dedicated support staff.
Your Experience on the Ground: Guiding, Transit & Support
How do I locate the Andean Bear Journeys team upon my arrival?
Upon walking out of the baggage claim area at your arrival airport or bus terminal, our representative will be waiting for you directly at the gate. They will be clearly holding a professional corporate sign displaying your full name, ready to manage your luggage and escort you to your transport.
In what languages are your professional tour guiding services available?
Our standard premium services are conducted fluently in English and Spanish. If you require specialized guiding services in other languages—such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, or Japanese—we can readily arrange this within a customized private format.
How are daily transfers managed between hotels, train stations, and attractions?
All ground connections are meticulously synchronized by our operations desk. Your guide or driver will pick you up directly from your hotel lobby at the precise times noted in your itinerary. We favor absolute punctuality to protect your vacation time from unnecessary waiting.
What operational support or medical assistance do you offer in case of emergencies?
We provide dedicated, 24/7 real-time telephone and messaging support throughout your entire stay in Peru. Additionally, our first-aid trained guides carry portable medical oxygen cylinders on all high-altitude mountain expeditions and maintain instant contact with certified local medical clinics.
How are dietary restrictions or food allergies handled during included lunches?
Your health is our priority. Whether you require vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-specific menu items during tourist buffets or traditional countryside lunches, our team coordinates directly with our restaurant partners in advance to guarantee safe, delicious culinary alternatives.
Are tips for guides and drivers included in the tour costs?
No, tipping is entirely voluntary and is not included in our program pricing. If you feel your professional guide, driver, or boat captain provided exceptional hospitality and outstanding service, a personal gratuity is a wonderful way to express your appreciation.
What type of vehicles are used for ground transportation?
We operate and coordinate a modern, fully insured, and climate-controlled fleet of tourist units, ranging from executive sedans and SUVs to spacious minivans and large tourist coaches. Every vehicle complies fully with international safety standards and holds official national tourism transit permits.
Do your itineraries include free time for independent exploring or shopping?
Yes. We strongly believe that an exceptional travel experience requires a careful balance between professional guided exploration and personal leisure. Our itineraries explicitly include dedicated free hours or mornings at leisure, allowing you to discover local markets and cobblestone streets at your own rhythm.
Can I buy souvenirs and local textiles directly from the communities we visit?
Yes, and we highly encourage it. Visiting traditional weaving towns like Chinchero or local artisan markets allows you to buy beautiful, authentic goods directly from the local families who craft them, directly supporting sustainable community tourism in the region.
What happens to my luggage during multi-day excursions away from my main hotel?
When traveling light to Machu Picchu or on overnight valley loops, your main hotel in Cusco will securely store your large suitcases in their private luggage room free of charge. You only need to pack a convenient backpack containing your essentials for the short overnight excursions.
«Please note: All published prices are for reference only and are subject to change based on seasonality, availability, and customization. We kindly request that you consult with our travel specialists for a final quote prior to booking to ensure a seamless experience.»