FAQ
Peru Inca Tour
What makes the Peru Inca Tour special?
The Peru Inca Tour is designed for riders who want to experience Peru’s legendary Inca roads, the Andes Mountains, ancient archaeological sites, remote highlands, Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, the Pan-American Highway, Pacific coastline, and authentic South American culture.
How long is the Peru Inca Tour and how far do we ride?
The Peru Inca Tour covers approximately 3,230 km through Peru. The main motorcycle route is listed as a 14-day adventure, with a final departure day after breakfast.
Where does the Peru Inca Tour start and finish?
The tour starts in Arequipa, Peru, and returns to Arequipa at the end of the riding route.
What is the best time of year to do the Peru Inca Motorcycle Tour?
The best time to ride the Peru Inca Tour is generally during the drier riding season, when the Andes, high-altitude roads, Amazon access routes, and desert/coastal sections are usually more suitable for motorcycle travel. Peru has many climates, so riders should prepare for cold mountain mornings, strong sun, rain, humid jungle conditions, and warmer desert/coastal riding.
Is November a good month to ride the Peru Inca Tour?
Yes. November can be a good month for the Peru Inca Tour, with spring conditions and dramatic scenery across the Andes and southern Peru. Riders should still prepare for changing mountain weather, possible rain, cold high-altitude sections, and warmer conditions near the Amazon and coast.
Is December a good month for the Peru Inca Tour?
December can be suitable, but weather may vary across the Andes and Amazon regions. Riders should be ready for rain in some areas, cold high-altitude riding, humid jungle conditions, and warmer desert/coastal sections.
Is January or February better for the Peru Inca Tour?
January and February can bring wetter conditions in parts of the Andes and Amazon. These months may still offer spectacular scenery, but riders should be prepared for rain, changing road conditions, and flexible travel logistics.
Is March a good time to ride the Peru Inca Tour?
Yes. March can be a good time for a Peru motorcycle tour as conditions may begin to improve after the wettest period in some areas. Riders should still prepare for rain, cold mountain mornings, altitude, and changing conditions between the Andes, Amazon, desert, and coast.
Can I ride the Peru Inca route in winter?
Peru’s winter months can be part of the drier season in the Andes, which can make some routes more suitable for riding. However, high-altitude areas can be very cold, especially early in the morning and evening, so riders should bring warm layers and proper adventure touring gear.
What weather should I expect on the Peru Inca Tour?
Expect a wide range of weather. The route travels through the Andes Mountains, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Amazon rainforest, Cusco, Machu Picchu region, Apurímac Canyon, Nazca desert, Pan-American Highway, and Pacific coastline. Riders may experience cold high-altitude air, strong sun, rain, humidity, dry desert heat, and rapid temperature changes.
Is the Peru Inca Tour very windy for motorcycle riding?
Wind can occur in open high-altitude areas, mountain passes, desert sections, and coastal roads. It is not the only challenge on this tour, but riders should be comfortable with exposed riding, crosswinds, and changing weather.
What temperature should I expect during the Peru Inca Tour?
Temperatures vary significantly by altitude and region. Arequipa, Nazca, and the coast can be mild or warm, while the Andes, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, and high mountain passes can be cold, especially in the morning and evening. The Amazon region can be warm and humid.
Is this tour suitable for adventure riders?
Yes. This is a true adventure motorcycle tour with high-altitude roads, remote Andean routes, gravel sections, dramatic elevation changes, Amazon rainforest access, canyon roads, desert riding, coastal highways, and professional support logistics.
How difficult is the Peru Inca Motorcycle Tour?
The tour is best suited to confident riders with experience on long-distance motorcycle trips. Riders should be comfortable with altitude, mountain switchbacks, remote areas, gravel or uneven road sections, changing weather, and full riding days.
Do I need off-road experience for the Peru Inca Tour?
You do not need to be an expert off-road rider, but gravel-road experience is helpful. The route includes remote gravel sections, mountain roads, high-altitude terrain, and areas where riders need to stay relaxed and ride at a controlled pace.
How many hours do we ride each day?
Daily riding times vary depending on the route, altitude, road conditions, sightseeing, photo stops, and weather. Some days are shorter or non-riding exploration days, while others are longer riding days of up to approximately 450 km.
What are the main highlights of the Peru Inca Tour?
Highlights include Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Mirador Cruz del Cóndor, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon Basin, Madre de Dios River, Tambopata rainforest, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Apurímac Canyon, Nazca Lines, the Pan-American Highway, the Pacific coast, Caleta San Jose, and the return to Arequipa.
Will we cross borders during the Peru Inca Tour?
No. The Peru Inca Tour takes place in Peru and does not include international border crossings.
What documents do I need for the Peru Inca Tour?
Riders should bring a valid passport, valid motorcycle license, International Driving Permit if required, travel insurance documents, booking confirmation, credit card, and any visa or entry documents required for their nationality.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Riders should check Peru entry requirements before booking flights and before the tour departure date.
What is included in the Peru Inca Tour?
The Peru Inca Tour includes an English- and Spanish-speaking motorcycle guide for the entire tour, a combination of 4- and 5-star hotels and lodges with breakfast, a CF450 or similar motorcycle, motorcycle storage and parking, third-party insurance in Peru, a 4x4 support vehicle with tools, spare parts and mechanic, coffee, tea, soft drinks and snacks throughout the route, four dinners excluding alcohol, all lunches on ride days, train trip to and from Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu admission and private bilingual guide, entrance fee and private bilingual guide to Colca Canyon, and satellite phone support for receiving calls and emergencies.
What is not included?
Flights, visas, personal items, gifts, extra snacks, alcohol, motorcycle security deposit, optional motorcycle damage reduction insurance, fuel, rest-day activities not mentioned as included, and any items or services not specifically listed as included are not included.
Is fuel included in the Peru Inca Tour?
No. Fuel is not included. Riders should budget separately for fuel during the trip.
Are flights included in the tour price?
No. Flights are not included. Riders need to arrange their own flights to and from Arequipa unless otherwise arranged separately.
Are hotels included?
Yes. The tour includes a combination of 4- and 5-star hotels and lodges with breakfast.
Are meals included?
Breakfast is included with accommodation. The tour also includes all lunches on ride days, coffee, tea, soft drinks, snacks, and four dinners. Alcohol and meals not listed as included are not included.
Is there a support vehicle?
Yes. The Peru Inca Tour includes a 4x4 support vehicle with tools, spare parts, mechanic support, snacks, drinks, and logistical assistance.
Is there a mechanic on the tour?
Yes. The support vehicle includes a mechanic, helping riders travel with more confidence through remote mountain, jungle, desert, and coastal regions.
Is satellite phone support included?
Yes. Satellite phone support is included for receiving calls and emergencies, which is useful in remote parts of the Andes, Amazon, and southern Peru where mobile reception may be limited.
What motorcycle is included?
The tour includes a CF450 or similar motorcycle.
Can I upgrade my motorcycle?
Yes. Motorcycle upgrades are listed as available for an additional cost, depending on availability. Listed upgrade options include CF800, BMW F 750 GS, Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE, Honda Africa Twin, Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE, and BMW 1250 GS.
Can I request a single room?
Yes. A single-room supplement is available for riders who prefer private accommodation.
Can I bring a passenger?
Yes. A pillion passenger option is available for an additional cost. Riders should be comfortable handling the motorcycle with a passenger, especially on mountain roads, gravel sections, high-altitude passes, canyon roads, and longer riding days.
Is the Peru Inca Tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Solo riders can join the group tour. This is a good option for riders who want the experience of a major Peru motorcycle expedition without organizing motorcycles, hotels, lodges, Machu Picchu logistics, support vehicle, route planning, and remote travel support alone.
Is this tour suitable for beginner riders?
This tour is not ideal for complete beginners. The Peru Inca route includes high altitude, mountain switchbacks, remote roads, gravel sections, long riding days, canyon roads, jungle routes, desert roads, and changing weather. Riders should have solid motorcycle control and long-distance riding confidence.
What type of motorcycle gear should I bring?
Bring full adventure touring gear suitable for high altitude, cold mornings, strong sun, rain, wind, humid jungle conditions, desert riding, and coastal sections. Waterproof and windproof protection, thermal layers, and breathable layers are important.
What should I pack for the Peru Inca Tour?
Pack for cold, altitude, rain, strong sun, humidity, desert heat, and changing conditions. The tour crosses the Andes, Lake Titicaca region, Amazon rainforest, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Apurímac Canyon, Nazca, the Pan-American Highway, and the Pacific coast.
Recommended packing items include:
- Full-face or modular motorcycle helmet
- Waterproof motorcycle jacket with armor
- Waterproof motorcycle pants with armor
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece, down, or insulated mid-layer
- Waterproof motorcycle gloves
- Warm winter riding gloves
- Lightweight riding gloves for milder days
- Waterproof adventure or touring boots
- Neck warmer or buff
- Rain gear, even if your riding suit is waterproof
- Sunglasses or tinted visor
- Clear visor for low-light conditions
- Moisture-wicking riding socks
- Casual clothes for evenings
- Warm jacket for non-riding activities
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear for hotels or hot springs, if available
- Personal medication
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Camel back water
- Camera or phone with extra storage
- Power bank and charging cables
- Passport and required travel documents
- Motorcycle license and International Driving Permit, if required
- Travel insurance documents
- Credit card and some cash for personal expenses
- Small dry bag for documents and electronicsDo I need waterproof gear for the Peru Inca Tour?
Yes. Waterproof gear is strongly recommended. The route includes mountain areas and Amazon rainforest regions where rain is possible, as well as changing conditions at altitude.
Do I need heated gear for the Peru Inca Tour?
Heated gear is not mandatory, but heated gloves, heated grips, or a heated vest can be useful for riders who feel the cold, especially during high-altitude riding in the Andes, Lake Titicaca region, and mountain passes above 4,500 meters.
Should I bring summer motorcycle gear?
Lightweight summer-only gear is not recommended as your main setup. The tour includes warm Amazon, desert, and coastal sections, but also cold high-altitude roads. A layered adventure suit is a better choice.
What is the best helmet for the Peru Inca Tour?
A full-face or modular helmet is recommended. It should be comfortable for long riding days and offer good protection from wind, rain, dust, cold air, strong sun, and changing conditions.
Should I bring a tinted visor or sunglasses?
Yes. Peru can have strong sun glare, especially at high altitude, near lakes, in desert areas, and along the coast. A tinted visor or sunglasses are useful, but riders should also bring a clear visor for rain, cloudy days, early starts, and low-light conditions.
What gloves should I pack?
Bring at least two pairs: waterproof warm gloves for cold or wet high-altitude conditions, and lighter riding gloves for warmer Amazon, desert, or coastal sections. Glove liners can also be useful.
What boots are best for the Peru Inca Tour?
Waterproof adventure or touring boots are recommended. They should provide ankle protection, comfort for walking, and enough weather resistance for rain, gravel, mountain roads, jungle stops, dusty desert conditions, and cold high-altitude sections.
What luggage should I bring?
Soft duffel bags or compact soft luggage are recommended. Avoid oversized hard suitcases unless luggage transport conditions are confirmed in advance. A small waterproof day bag is useful for documents, electronics, medication, camera gear, and extra layers.
Can I wash clothes during the tour?
Laundry may be available at some hotels or lodges, but it should not be assumed every day. Pack quick-dry clothing and enough base layers and socks for several riding days.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Riders are required to have travel insurance that provides coverage against personal accidents, sickness, and related travel risks. It is recommended to choose insurance that covers motorcycle touring, emergency medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, high-altitude travel, and riding abroad.
Do I need motorcycle insurance?
The tour includes third-party insurance in Peru, and the rental contract includes third-party liability and comprehensive motorcycle insurance. Optional motorcycle damage reduction insurance may be available for an additional cost. Riders should confirm insurance conditions, exclusions, and security deposit requirements before departure.
Is there a motorcycle security deposit?
Yes. A motorcycle security deposit applies. Riders should confirm the amount, payment method, and damage policy before the tour.
Is there a minimum number of riders?
Yes. Departure is subject to six confirmed riders.
How early should I book the Peru Inca Tour?
It is best to book early because the tour includes limited hotel and lodge availability, Machu Picchu train and admission logistics, private guiding, motorcycle availability, and support vehicle planning. Early booking also helps secure preferred motorcycle upgrades, pillion arrangements, or single-room options.
Should I arrive before the tour starts?
Yes. Arriving at least one day before the riding begins is recommended. The tour starts in Arequipa with arrival, hotel transfer, expedition briefing, motorcycle handover, tour preparation, and a welcome dinner.
Should I book my return flight on the same day the tour ends?
It is usually better to book your return flight after the final scheduled departure morning. The itinerary returns to Arequipa before the end of the tour and includes transfer to Arequipa Airport after breakfast on the final day.
Is mobile phone coverage available during the tour?
Coverage may be limited or unavailable in remote Andean, Amazon, canyon, and desert areas. Riders should not rely on mobile service at all times. The tour includes satellite phone support for receiving calls and emergencies.
Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi may be available in many hotels and lodges, but speed and reliability can vary, especially in remote mountain areas, jungle regions, and smaller towns.
Can I take photos and videos during the tour?
Yes. The Peru Inca Tour is excellent for photography and video, with volcanic landscapes, Colca Canyon, Andean villages, Lake Titicaca, Amazon rainforest, Madre de Dios River, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Apurímac Canyon, Nazca Lines, desert roads, Pacific coastline, and colonial Arequipa.
Are drones allowed on the Peru Inca Tour?
Drone rules vary by country, region, archaeological site, park, and local authority. Drones may be restricted or prohibited at Machu Picchu, protected areas, archaeological sites, airports, sensitive natural zones, and other regulated locations. Riders should check current regulations before bringing a drone.
What money should I bring?
Bring a credit card and some cash for personal expenses, fuel, tips, drinks, optional activities, souvenirs, and small purchases. Access to ATMs may be limited in remote towns, jungle areas, and smaller villages.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Dietary needs should be communicated before the tour. Many hotels, lodges, and restaurants can help, but options may be limited in remote areas, small towns, and jungle lodges.
Is the Peru Inca Tour safe for motorcycle travel?
A guided tour with a professional route plan, support vehicle, mechanic, selected hotels and lodges, Machu Picchu logistics, and satellite phone support helps reduce risk. Riders should still ride defensively, follow guide instructions, respect altitude and weather conditions, and avoid riding beyond their comfort level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The guide and support team will manage the route according to safety, road conditions, local information, and tour logistics. Weather can change quickly in the Andes and Amazon, so flexibility is important.
What happens if I get tired during the tour?
Riders should communicate with the guide if they feel tired, affected by altitude, or uncomfortable. The support team can help assess options depending on the day’s route, location, and logistics.
Can I skip a riding day?
This may be possible depending on the route and support vehicle logistics, but it cannot always be guaranteed. Some days include remote travel, specific lodging, scheduled excursions, or required transfers, so riders should discuss this with the guide during the tour.
Is the Peru Inca Tour good for photography lovers?
Yes. This tour is excellent for photography, with Arequipa, volcanic landscapes, Colca Canyon, Andean Condors, Lake Titicaca, Amazon rainforest, Madre de Dios River, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Apurímac Canyon, Nazca Lines, Pan-American Highway, Pacific coastline, and remote Peruvian villages.
Who is the Peru Inca Tour best for?
This tour is best for riders looking for a premium guided motorcycle adventure through one of South America’s most diverse countries. It is ideal for riders who want Andes mountain roads, Inca history, Machu Picchu, Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Nazca Lines, desert landscapes, coastal riding, support logistics, and a complete Peru motorcycle expedition.
Why choose a guided Peru motorcycle tour instead of riding alone?
A guided tour saves riders the challenge of organizing motorcycles, hotels, lodges, Machu Picchu tickets, train logistics, private guides, support vehicle, mechanical backup, route planning, and remote travel coordination. This allows riders to focus on the experience, the scenery, and the riding.