Classic Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

Where do I start? This has been an unforgettable experience. It wasn't easy, but with such a slick operation from the porters and our incredible chef, Julien, we were almost swept along. As for our guide, Ismael, I've never had the pleasure of being with such a knowledgeable, passionate, funny, caring person. His love and pride in his hone country shone through, deservedly so. I've no idea how he remembered so much information. But what he told us was relevant to where we were and luckily repeated and affirmed as necessary. He has a bright future, I'm sure.

Our group of 4 friends have just completed the 5 day/4 nights Inca trail. Our guide Ismel was exceptional, his love and knowledge of history, the mountains, the flora and fauna was obvious and it added an extra special dimension to an already wonderful trip. Could not have asked for a better guide. My complements to our chief Julián who produced some of the best food under extraordinary conditions that I have ever tasted! Many thanks also to our amazing Porters with their skills, strength and always with a smile and laughter.

We had such a great experience trekking to Machu Picchu with Alpaca Expeditions. Ismael and Darwin were excellent guides - knowledgeable, encouraging, and always helping us out! We learnt so much about the history and the landscape of the area, and our team always ensured we had lots of pictures to take away as memories. The whole organisation was really efficient - pre trek info, pickup and drop off, the day to day movement of camp. This was our first hike and we were so supported by our guides and the porters. We really liked meeting our porters and having the opportunity to thank them at the end - they make the hike possible. The chef ensured we were fuelled for all our adventures and the food was delicious. One hiker revealed it had been her birthday on day 2 of the hike and the next day there was a cake to celebrate! I am vegan and they prepared me a separate cake so I wasn't left out. I was always given plenty of options at every meal. When I became unwell during the hike, Ismael continually checked in on me. I felt looked out for but still empowered to push on and finish the hike. This trek was the highlight of our time in Peru and we are so grateful to have been able to take part.

Alpaca ensures that throughout the duration of the Inca Trail that you are looked after and have the best experience possible. Our guides, Javier and Rich gave great advice and looked after the group. They knew when to joke but also when to provide serious advice for the group. Javier was knowledgeable about the mountain with its flora and fauna and also provided great tips during the trail. Javier especially provided help to a member in the group who struggled with altitude and the hike, going as far as to take some weight or assist with the hills. The porters are efficient and helpful. They work hard to make sure camp is set up and packed each day and the chefs provide amazing food that boggles the mind with the quality on the hike. I highly recommend doing the Inca Trail with Alpaca.

Our tour guides, Javier and Wilbur were absolutely amazing. Not to mention our 24 superhuman porters. A fellow traveler in our group hurt himself and the amazing porters carried him all the way out in addition to porting our stuff....It was unbelievable! The food, the company, the information, the tents and sleeping bags and the porta potty was all so taken care of. We, 16 of us were so taken care of. We had everything we needed and more. Yes, it was challenging and hard. The Inka steps are no joke, but I can't say enough good things about Alpaca and my experience. I only wish I would have known to bring more Soles for potty breaks and tipping. Many of us tipped at least double and triple what was suggested. These are incredible people doing an incredible job of providing a wonderful experience I will never forget. Liz