What’s the Perolniyoc Tour like?

It’s a day hike with awesome views in the Sacred Valley. You see a big waterfall (over 50 meters!) and old Pre-Inca ruins up on the hill above it. It’s not one of the super crowded trails so feels a bit more off the beaten path.

Where is Perolniyoc?

It’s in the Socma community about 50 km north of Cusco City heading towards Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.

Where does the tour start and end?

The actual hike starts in Socma village and goes up to the Racaypata ruins. But the whole tour service picks you up from your hotel in Cusco and drops you back there (or nearby).

Do I need a Tourist Ticket for Perolniyoc?

Nope currently there’s no entrance fee for the Perolniyoc waterfall itself. Your tour price includes any needed tickets for included sites like potentially Ñaupa Iglesia if required on the day.

How hard is the hike?

Easy to moderate. Lots of it is fairly flat but there are some steep uphill bits that’ll get your heart pumping a bit especially with the altitude.

How long is the actual walking part?

The main hiking part up and down is probably around 3-4 hours total walking time maybe a bit more with stops. The whole tour is a full day though with travel. Self-correction: Original text FAQ said 6 hours one way which seems very long for this itinerary and conflicts with other descriptions. Adjusted to reflect the itinerary timings and common descriptions of this hike.

When’s the best time to do this tour?

Dry season (May – October) is great. Sunny days clear skies. Daytime temps around 18circC (64circF) but nights get cold near freezing sometimes so bring warm layers for morning/evening.

What’s a good age for this tour?

Recommended around 12 years and up mainly because of the hike and altitude. Need to be able to handle a few hours of walking with some hills.

Can I do it if I have physical limitations?

Probably not recommended. The trail is uneven has steep parts and isn’t paved or easily accessible.

How do I book?

You can usually book online or email the tour company like the one mentioned (Inkayni) at [email address removed].

Why pay a deposit?

The deposit helps the company lock everything in for you – the transport the guide etc. especially since they need to book staff ahead of time. It guarantees your spot.

How far ahead should I book?

You can often book just 24 hours ahead but it’s always safer to book earlier if you can especially in busy season. Check with the company.

Can I change the date after booking?

Usually yes if you give enough notice (like 72 hours before). Best to talk directly to the travel agent to sort out new dates.

Do I need hiking poles?

Not essential but definitely helpful especially for the downhill parts to save your knees. If you have knee issues they’re a good idea. You can often rent them maybe for around $15 USD.

Where can I leave big luggage?

Your hotel in Cusco will almost always store luggage for free while you’re on a day trip or multi-day trek. If not the tour company might store it at their office. Just bring a small daypack for the hike.

Is there phone signal or internet?

Probably not much or none during the hike itself. You’re out in the mountains. Maybe some signal in Socma or Ñaupa Iglesia but don’t count on it.

Are there bathrooms on the trail?

Not really proper ones out on the trail itself. It’s a remote path. There might be basic ones at the start in Socma village but maybe not guaranteed. Best to go before you leave Cusco or Soqma. Nature calls sometimes means finding a discreet spot off trail (pack out any paper!).

What are the tour terms and conditions?

Most tour companies have these on their website check there for details on cancellations changes liability etc.