Everything You Need to Know for Your Peru Adventure with Ali Peru Treks

At Ali Peru Treks, we believe the foundation of an unforgettable journey is built long before you set foot on the trail. As 100% local Quechua operators, we provide this comprehensive guide to guarantee the success of your experience. Whether you are joining our Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, or our day trips to Rainbow Mountain, this guide will help you travel with the confidence of being accompanied by the true sons of the Andes.

The Optimal Time to Visit Cusco and Machu Picchu

The Andean climate is cyclical and magical. Here is how to choose your dates:

• Dry Season (May to September): This is the ideal time for trekking. You will enjoy sunny days and clear mountain views, perfect for photography. Important note: Nights are freezing, especially in June and July, when temperatures can drop below 32°F (0°C). Thermal clothing is mandatory!
• The Green Season (October to April): The valleys are covered in intense greenery and wildflowers. It is a quieter time with fewer tourists, perfect for those seeking serenity. Although there are rain showers, Machu Picchu wrapped in mist offers an incomparably mystical atmosphere.
• Ali’s Pro Tip: The months of April and October offer «the best of both worlds» lush landscapes, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds than the peak season.

Altitude and Acclimatization: Respecting the Apus

Cusco sits at 11,150 feet (3,400 meters). Proper acclimatization is essential to enjoying your adventure without setbacks.

• Arrive in Advance: We recommend arriving at least two days before starting your trek.
• Ancestral Hydration: Drink plenty of water and try our local infusions like coca tea or muña tea—remedies our community has used for centuries.
• First Day of Rest: Avoid heavy meals and alcohol. Take gentle walks through Cusco’s historic center to activate your body.
• Safety First: All our guides at Ali Peru Treks are trained in altitude management. We always carry portable oxygen tanks and comprehensive medical kits.

Preparing for Your Trek: What to Pack?

We provide high-end camping equipment, but your personal comfort depends on what you bring:

• Layering System: The weather changes fast. Bring breathable layers, a fleece or down jacket, and a high-quality rain poncho or waterproof shell.
• Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots are a must and most importantly must be broken in. Never wear brand-new boots on the first day of a trek.
• Key Accessories: A warm hat (beanie), a sun hat, UV protection sunglasses, sunscreen (the Andean sun is very strong), and a reusable water bottle.
• Ali’s Extras: Don’t forget your favorite snacks, a power bank for your camera/phone, and any personal medication.

Health and Safety: Our Top Priority

Hiking with Ali Peru Treks means being in the safest hands:

• Local Experts: Our excursions are led by licensed guides with years of real-world mountain experience.
• Small Groups: We keep our groups small to guarantee personalized attention and constant support.
• Smart Design: Our itineraries are designed for gradual altitude gain, allowing your body to adapt naturally and healthily.

Entrance Tickets and Permits

The Peruvian government strictly limits the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail. Permits usually sell out 6 to 8 months in advance.

• Full Management: When you book with Ali Peru Treks, we handle everything: Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and train reservations.
• Peace of Mind: We will provide you with a digital copy of your tickets so you can travel with total security. Remember that even alternative routes (Salkantay, Lares) require booking Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance.

Sustainable Travel and a Unique Social Commitment

By traveling with us, you are more than a tourist you are an ally to our culture:

• Leave No Trace: We are guardians of the Andes. We manage all our waste and use eco-friendly products.
• Fair Treatment: As a former porter, our founder Ali Huamán ensures that our cooks and porters receive fair wages, technical uniforms, and high-quality equipment.
• Impact on Children: A percentage of your booking goes directly to our Social Project in Huayllaccocha, funding the school where we teach Spanish to Quechua-speaking children to prevent the school discrimination that Ali experienced as a child.

When you travel with Ali Peru Treks, you are helping to preserve a living culture and protect the future of the children of the Andes.