Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board Inca Trail

Sorry, I know that this is off topic! But I know many of you have hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I plan to do it this spring or summer, and can't decide which guide service to use. Any recommendations?

We were on a packaged tour that took the train down from Cusco to Macchu Picchu, so I can't help you with a guide service recommendation. However, once you get to Macchu Picchu, take the time to scramble up to the top of Huyna Picchu. It's the spire at the far end of the site in the postcard picture view of Macchu Picchu. Definitely worth the effort for the view of Macchu Picchu from the top and a nice scramble with a couple of "interesting" moves along the way.

Thanks for the tip on Huyna Picchu!

I went with Southern Explorations (www.southernexplorations.com). Great outfit. Only 400 permits are issued for the peak referred to, so get there very early (Issued at Machu Picchu). My tour was 3 minimum and 6 maximum. As it turned out all cancelled except me. They met me at the airport and said, "We are all yours."

I went with United Mice, but it was in 1999, so things may have changed of course. I did the 3 day hike/MP on morning of 4th day trip. This is the way to do Machu Picchu - you should walk to it just like the Inca did. I remember our guide was a guy named Hamilton and he gave lessons about the history and flora as we went along. I was traveling alone and there were around 10 in our group. 3 sherpas carried the food and tents and cooked. It is so great to arrive and everything is all set up and a hot drink is ready for you. They get there before you because they are so experienced and can choose the best location for the camp. I traveled through the Andes for a year and rarely joined these organized tours, but I'm glad I saw MP this way.

Anyway I can add more if you wish but that will answer your question. I just looked at the UM website and they're still there. That's good. I arrived at Cusco and then sought hotel and guide info from there. Another important recommendation would be to join the South American Explorers Club. They have tons of resources from other travelers.

If you have other questions feel free to contact me here or AdiosRich@yahoo.com.

Thanks, AdiosRich! United Mice is now on our list to consider. Sounds like they did a good job.

Hi DocDiamond, I was looking at old posts and thought I would see how your trip to Machu Picchu went. Did you make it?