Alpaca Expeditions Blog

Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain, and Palccoyo have emerged as must-visit destinations in Peru’s Andean region. Vinicunca capt ...

Paracas Peru Tours offers a captivating journey through the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Peru’s coastal region. Nestled amid ...

The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu stand as iconic symbols of ancient civilization, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s Andean mou ...

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the heart of Cusco to the awe-inspiring wonder of Rainbow Mountain Peru. As its fame spreads far and wide, the ...

Responsible tourism emphasizes the importance of traveling in a way that benefits local communities, preserves natural environments, and respects cult ...

Alpaca Expeditions stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism, deeply rooted in the Peruvian landscape and culture. Founded by Raul Ccolque, a former p ...

Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Cusco stands as a testament to a glorious past, serving as the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. The cit ...

With its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders, Peru offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be explored. From the majestic peaks o ...

Peru’s archaeological heritage is a testament to the rich tapestry of human history that has unfolded over millennia. Spanning thousands of year ...

Salkantay Trek or Inca Trail: Peru is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unparalleled trekking opportunities, with the Salkan ...

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Cusco jungle region lies a unique and biodiverse ecosystem, teeming with lush rainforests, vibrant w ...

Welcome to Peru, where vibrant culture and rich traditions await your discovery, beginning right here in the bustling capital city of Lima. As the gat ...

Nestled amidst the majestic Andes Mountains of Peru, the Salkantay Trail is a testament to nature’s grandeur and human ingenuity. This ancient p ...

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Peru, the Classic Inca Trail stands as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of the ancient Inca c ...

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Peru, the Inca Trail stands as an ancient testament to the rich tapestry of history woven through the An ...

Sustainability and responsible tourism have become pivotal in the global travel industry. Emphasizing the need to minimize environmental impact and pr ...

Intrigued by its rich cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and the remnants of an ancient civilization, Peru stands as a beacon for adventurous ...

Machu Picchu trek is a journey veiled in mystique, offering a blend of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and a sense of unparalleled adventure ...

The Sacred Valley stands as a living testament to Peru’s rich heritage and storied past. Once the heartland of the Incan Empire, its breathtakin ...

Peru, a country rich in history and breathtaking scenery that draws tourists from all over the world. It is a canvas of wonders just waiting to be dis ...

Adventurers and history buffs alike are enthralled with Machu Picchu, the jewel in Peru’s cultural and historical landscape. Selecting the right ...

Situated a few of the majestic Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu stands as a timeless wonder, attracting adventurers from across the globe. This historica ...

Machu Picchu stands tall as one in all Earth’s most opulent wonders, nestled amidst Peru’s beautiful landscapes. Its ancient ruins whisper ...

Machu Picchu stands as a beacon of mystery and allure, captivating travelers worldwide with its ancient secrets and breathtaking vistas. It’s no ...

Embarking on an adventure to Peru is tempting, brimming with cultural richness, historical marvels, and natural wonders. However, the journey becomes ...

Machu Picchu stands as an enigmatic wonder, drawing travelers from across the globe. Especially from the United States, to explore its ancient mystiqu ...

The allure of Machu Picchu transcends mere travel; it embodies a dream, an expedition into history and nature that lingers in the imagination of many ...

Peru, a land brimming with ancient mystique and natural grandeur, boasts a landscape that beckons adventurers from every corner of the globe. Its maje ...

Peru, a tapestry woven with historical marvels, natural splendor, and cultural vibrancy, stands as an uncharted realm of awe-inspiring beauty. Nestled ...

The mountain “Huayna Picchu” comes from the origin of the quechua language which means “Young Mountain”. It is located north of the Inca city ...

Alpaca Expeditions is so honored to announce, we have been nominated in: Peru’s Leading Tour Operator in Peru by the World Travel Awards™ (WT ...

The Inca Trail provides incredible-looking views, from the titanic Andes mountains extending to the clouds, to tropical forests, to beautiful alpine c ...

Though somewhat lesser-known than the world-famous Inca Trail, the Salkantay Mountain trek is stunning and ranked by hikers and travel publications as ...

The Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights is a popular trekking route that leads to the ancient city of Machu Picchu in Peru. Located in the Andes Mountains, the ...

As we do every year around the holiday season, we will be bringing gifts to the children who live in the high mountains. Alpaca Expeditions is a compa ...

Porters are an essential part of the trekking team on the Inca Trail, carrying tourists’ belongings and camping equipment from one camp to another. ...

A hike to Peru’s ancient city of Machu Picchu is sure to be one of the most memorable adventure experiences in your lifetime. This handy guide answe ...

Make a Positive Travel Impact – Alpaca Expeditions Shows You How Alpaca Expeditions puts sustainability in travel & business at the heart of ...

The Peruvian city of Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched at 3,400 metres over 11,000 feet in elevation. Visitors can feel the effects of the ...

Hiking and traveling enthusiasts often dream of completing the Salkantay Trek, following the steps of the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu, and ...

Many travelers to Macchu Pichu start their trip in Cusco, but there’s more to the ancient city than just a staging site for a hike up the Inca T ...

A visit to Peru should include unique tours that cover major points of interest and landmarks.  If you’re traveling to Peru and want to experie ...

Are you looking to explore Peru and Machu Picchu? There are many tours to choose from, therefore it is important to choose an experienced and enthusia ...

Hiking the Inca Trail is, to many travelers, a must-do in their travel checklist. This hike enchants travelers from all over the world with its landsc ...

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. Spanning an approximate 63 KM in distance and crossing through the spl ...

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu has been estimated to receive approximately 1 million visitors per year (pre-pandemic). For many, this w ...

The Inca Trail Permit System was created by the Peruvian government to help prevent serious overcrowding, overuse, and erosion on the historic Inca Tr ...

The Salkantay trail is one of the most beautiful alternative trails when hiking to Machu Picchu. This trail grants access to some of the most astonish ...

Trekkers want to know what flowers and plants they will see on their treks to Machu Picchu. Here is your insider guide to the gorgeous and abundant pl ...

Incan Myth about the Orchids of Machu Picchu “In the kingdom of the Andes there was a beautiful young princess. She fell in love with a brave an ...

Peru is a country and culture of many colors. As far as the eye can see, indigenous clothing, flavorful dishes, and lush vegetation adorn landscapes. ...

The plazas of ancient Cusco were epicenters of political activity, used mostly as a marketplace or area for people to gather for religious customs. Wh ...

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Inside the Sacred Valley we have this hidden gem, Huchuy Qosqo, as its name suggests ‘’Little Cusco’’, this beautiful archaeological center h ...

Moving forward from Sacsayhuaman, you can find this amazing site. Hidden inside the forest, Q’enqo Archaeological Complex rises to be part of your ...

During a normal city tour, you will be able to visit the 4 ruins that are surrounding Cusco. The third of these archeological sites is Puca Pucara. ...

Waqrapukara originates from Quechua words: Waqra meaning “horn” and Pukara meaning “Fortification”. We would then be able to ...

This beautiful lagoon often called ‘’Blue lagoon’’ awakens the senses of everybody who gets the chance to conquer its path and get to witness ...

Alpaca Expeditions understands special dietary restrictions. We can accommodate your special needs and prepare appropriate meals by our Chefs. To cele ...

Travelers who had booked their flight between Lima and Cusco on Peruvian Airlines in the upcoming months are scrambling to find alternative flights af ...

The Inca Trail is certainly one of the most amazing and beautiful trails not only in the Americas, but the world at large, where travelers can enjoy u ...

There are times when the hunt for adventure will bring us to a trail of new places that have yet to be appreciated by everyone. Most will go to big ci ...

Machu Picchu has long been a dream destination for explorers and adventurers. The trek can be challenging at times, yet priceless rewards await you al ...

Whether you’re seeking an active holiday, love ancient history or trekking out in the wildness, visiting Machu Picchu is an ideal trip for you. Even ...

In order to prepare for any trek to Machu Picchu, you need to practice. While there may be workout programs and training schedules to prepare your bod ...

Machu Picchu is one of the marvels of the world. Visiting this site is an amazing adventure, and Machu Picchu guided tours are essential to get the be ...

Peru boasts many interesting sites to see, from the famous Machu Picchu to less celebrated sites. Two of the most intriguing are the mysterious Inca r ...

Historically, Peruvian tour guides have been predominantly male. Females are seldom asked to take leadership roles on the mountain. However, their pre ...

The massive Salkantay Mountain is the highest point of the Peruvian Andes Mountains. “Salkantay” is a Quechua word meaning “savage m ...

Spending a week or longer in Peru and enjoying majestic sites like Machu Picchu is ideal, but some travelers don’t have the time to devote to long-t ...

The Salkantay hike was once a “secret” way to Machu Picchu compared to the more widely known Inca Trail. However, now the hike is at the t ...

Many people look forward to visiting the historic site of Machu Picchu. However, outdoor enthusiasts also strive to explore some of the regional lands ...

Hikers who love a challenge are heading to the Salkantay Pass for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Machu Picchu is, of course, a renowned cultural ...

Machu Picchu is one of the most sought-after hikes in the entire world. People travel from all over the globe to see this national point of pride. So, ...

Travelers who plan Machu Picchu Peru tours are in for an amazing trip. Visitors experience starry nights, therapeutic hot springs, and soaring mountai ...

There are numerous Peru Machu Picchu tours available. Therefore, it is essential to choose an experienced and passionate team of guides to lead your t ...

For many travelers, Machu Picchu is the reason to visit Peru. And while this wonderful country has many different sights and experiences to offer, t ...

If you’re planning a visit to Peru, a hike to the incredible, mythic city of Machu Picchu is a must. The entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain is a ...

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel situated in the Cusco region of Peru, right above the Sacred Valley. Some of the highlights of Machu Picch ...

Hiking the Inca Trail is not an easy feat.  The hike entails significant safety risks, where you will ascend over 13,000 feet in four days. Neverthel ...

The Machu Picchu trail is one of the most beautiful, breathtaking hiking tours you will ever experience. Get the most out of your adventure by going i ...

Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic sites, is always a dream destination for any person visiting Peru. The site is located deep in the ...

Imagine: you’re awakened by the sounds of guides going through the camp, stirring the campers from their slumber and telling them to prepare  ...

Tours in any part of Peru will always be very interesting and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No one knows for sure exactly what role the site of Mac ...

Peru’s history spans about four millennia and is characterized by several stages of cultural development in the coastal desert and the mountain ...

Machu Picchu is a dream destination for many. If you’re interested in visiting this historic sight, then you may already have done some research ...

Your bucket list isn’t complete without a tour to Machu Picchu. When you’re ready to step off the beaten path and enjoy the lush rainfores ...

Machu Picchu is one of the most popular places to visit in the world, with the site hosting up to 1000 people each day during the high season between ...

There are many different things that people look forward to when they are traveling. Some look for historical sites, and there are others that are int ...

Often known as the “the Inca’s Lost City,” Machu Picchu is situated in the Cusco area of Peru. One of the most remarkable prehistori ...

Altitude sickness is an unpredictable condition. You might easily think it is just jet lag or feeling under the weather, but if you are in a mountaino ...

Visiting Machu Picchu and hiking the famous Inca Trail is on many people’s bucket lists. This beautiful and historic citadel is located high in ...

Peru is home to some of the oldest, most historic cities and ruins in all of South America. Proclaimed as the “richest country in the world̶ ...

The weather at Machu Picchu is very dependable, with almost steady temperatures all through the year, and the year can be separated into two seasons: ...

If visiting Machu Picchu is not on your bucket list, then it is time you add it. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the recent times, tho ...

Traveling to Machu Picchu is a trip that will take you back in time through nature, with sweeping panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenery. Wh ...

Machu Picchu is the dream destination of many tourists. Getting around the area, however, and enjoying all the aspects of this great  destination can ...

Machu Picchu is arguably the best attraction in all of Peru. A wonder of the ancient world, this mountaintop Incan ruin is a beautiful sight to behold ...

If you’re up for a real adventure, then you should consider hiking the Inca Trail. The length of this hike is 42 km and takes about four days to ...

Without a doubt Peru is one of the world’s greatest backpacking destinations. The country is geographically diverse and rich in culture. It is t ...

Machu Picchu is arguably the best-known tourist destination in Peru. Ancient ruins sit atop a high peak in the Andes Mountains. Home to spectacular vi ...

The ancient city of Machu Picchu is one of the wonders of the ancient world. Built high atop the Peruvian Andes Mountains, it was said to be the kingd ...

One of the best-known destinations in Peru is Machu Picchu. The ruins and site can be reached either by a hike or taking the train. Unless you’v ...

Peru is a multi-ethnic country with a population of roughly 30 million people. This South American country is located on the western side of the conti ...

Machu Picchu, for many visiting South America, is their number one sight-seeing spot, the highest point of their travel. Indeed, Machu Picchu is a sig ...

There are very many beautiful types of places worldwide which are ideal for hiking. The Inca Trail has one of the best spot for hiking as well as sati ...

Each year, millions of individuals visit the mysterious and imposing Incan citadel of Machu Picchu situated in Peru. However, getting to the intricate ...

Hiking the Inca Trail is often one of the things in many individuals’ bucket lists, and that is why it is wise to understand some of the best wa ...

I must’ve seen at least a hundred photographs which look exactly like this one I took of Machu Picchu before I booked my flight from Hong Kong to Li ...

A hike to Machu Picchu is sure to be one of the best outdoor adventures in your lifetime. Don’t let the experience be ruined by being under-prepared ...

The Trek Salkantay Trail connects Cusco to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is approximately 55 miles long. Beginning at the village of ...

Of course this is our most popular question – what will the weather be like on the trek? While we can’t answer this specifically, we can give you ...

Alpaca wool is a marvelous thing! It is super soft and warm and it “breathes,” making it wonderful to wear during cooler weather. Sweaters, gloves ...

In 2013 Alpaca Expeditions had a trekker on the Classic Inca Trail Trek named Rusty Rayner. Rusty has a website development and graphic design company ...

You may have recently noticed in popular social media and on the Internet the discovery of a fascinating new destination in the high Andes which is be ...

The Inca Trail Sky | For those of you booked with us on one of our Alternative Treks, we have now added Telescopes to our campsites (one campsite on e ...

We are happy to report that Alpaca Expeditions has now passed all of the qualifications and documentation required to requalify us as a licensed 2016 ...

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday Alpaca Expeditions is sending our already well-known and much-loved chefs (including our Chef “Super”Mario) for a ...

Alpaca Expeditions was created with a focus on our community.  There are lots of companies that trek the Andes, but unfortunately many of the compani ...

We have been so lucky to have so many of our clients post amazing reviews about their experiences with us on sites like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet and ...

The Green Machine of Alpaca along with all our fellow Peruvians and foreigners visiting our beautiful country will celebrate Inti Raymi on June 24th. ...

Welcome to May everyone! We have officially entered the heart of the busiest time for tourism in this area. Many of you have treks coming up shortly a ...

Many of you have asked about what vaccinations are needed for traveling to Peru. We think that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention really o ...

The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during the month of February which gives our busy guides the opportunity to do some additional training and c ...

At Alpaca Expeditions, we understand that there is always room to grow and learn – we really strive to be the best within our industry in order to b ...

Every year, on the first day of February where the whole team is back from trekking and touring, Alpaca has a party to say THANK YOU.  We know that w ...

First of all, Happy New Year to everyone.  Sorry we have been neglectful of our blog, but we were busy securing all our permits for 2014 and doing a ...

Fly.com is currently running a special for anyone traveling from the Washington DC area flying to Lima in February, March, and April for flights as lo ...

First of all, we want to set everyone straight – the Pisco Sour was invented in Peru and will always be a national treasure. While some of our neigh ...

So many of you have taken time out of your day to write amazing reviews about your experience with Alpaca Expeditions on websites like TripAdvisor and ...

National Georgraphic came out with another great list of suggested books to read before visiting or while visiting Machu Picchu.  Of course Turn Rig ...

On this date—July 24, 1911—American historian Hiram Bingham discovered Machu Picchu. He originally thought he had come across Vilcambra, another l ...

We don’t normally publish reviews written about us on TripAdvisor on this blog, but I thought our recent trekker’s review included so many good de ...

CUSCO, PERU – May 23, 2013 – Alpaca Expeditions is pleased to announce that we have received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award for ...

As amazing as visiting Machu Picchu is, the beauty of the ruins is best appreciated from above.  While all you Inca Trail hikers will get to see this ...

Sorry I haven’t updated the Alpaca blog in a while. I saw this article today in STUFF magaizine and thought it was a great start for people who were ...

New JW Marriott at Gateway of Machu Picchu is built on grounds of Colonial Monastery and features ancient Inca artefacts Marriott International contin ...

Reviewed September 10, 2012 by Renee Q. My boyfriend and I just returned from a 5 Day hike to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail with Alpaca. Here’s wha ...

You asked, we listened… Recently travellers have been asking us about 2 day treks that aren’t the Inca Trail – since that trek is fully booked m ...

The current airport in Cusco makes getting to Cusco and visiting Machu Picchu very difficult for international tourists with limited time in Peru. Cur ...

Katy Perry is planning a holiday to South America – to Machu Picchu! The singer is reportedly taking a three-month holiday; her divorce from Russell ...

Once you arrive in Cusco, you quickly learn how important the guinea pig is – to our diet. It is such a popular dish in Peru, that the most famous c ...

Many hikers ask us about tipping at the end of their tour with Alpaca.  Tipping is of course 100% voluntary and should only be done if you feel like ...

Machu Picchu, a pre-Columbian Inca site, has acquired worldwide fame for its powerful vortex energy and sacredness that are of great appeal to the ded ...

A section of the Peru’s Inca Trail was recently discovered in the Cusco region on the country’s southeast side after having been abandoned for abo ...

Trekking to Machu Picchu has become more popular than ever. Peru has now become a hot spot for travellers, which has been amazing, but it has also cau ...

Do you need to book ahead ? YES! It is imperative to book your trek in advance. The classic Inca Trail is extremely regulated by the Peruvian governme ...

Raul, why did you start Alpaca Expeditions? Raul: I started with the purpose of helping porters and their families. What makes Alpaca Expeditions diff ...

As those of you who have already trekked with us know, we lovingly call our hardest workers, OUR PORTERS, the Green Machine. These guys work endlessly ...