Overview
Unforgettable All-Inclusive Lodge-Based Tour to Machu Picchu and Beyond
Experience the magic of Peru with our all-inclusive lodge-based tour that combines comfort, culture, and adventure. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, this journey will take you deep into the heart of Cusco’s top attractions and beyond!
Explore Iconic Landmarks and Rich History
Your adventure begins in Cusco, where you’ll discover the majesty of iconic sites such as the Colonial Cathedral, the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), Sacsayhuamán, the Salt Mines of Maras, and the breathtaking Sacred Valley. Of course, the highlight of your trip will be the awe-inspiring Inca City of Machu Picchu. With Peru by Locals, we handle everything from airport to airport, ensuring a seamless experience. We provide entrance tickets, transportation, comfortable lodging, train tickets, delicious meals, and knowledgeable guides available 24/7.
Immerse Yourself in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a treasure trove of Incan heritage. Marvel at the spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and the majestic Urubamba River. Explore ancient sites that reflect the advanced engineering and agricultural practices of the Incas, including the renowned salt mines that have been in use since ancient times.
Day Hike to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, shrouded in mystery, showcases incredible architectural and astronomical achievements of the Inca civilization. The highlight of your tour is a day hike along the ancient Inca Trail, culminating in a breathtaking entrance through the Sun Gate. This experience is perfect for small groups, families, couples, and honeymooners seeking adventure and connection with nature.
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Arrival in Cusco and guided city tour
- Day 2: Extended tour of the Sacred Valley
- Day 3: Short hike on the Inca Trail
- Day 4: Guided exploration of Machu Picchu
- Day 5: Departure from Cusco
Tour Highlights
- Expert Guides: Experience the passion and knowledge of our professional guides.
- Stress-Free Travel: Enjoy exclusive tours crafted for your comfort and enjoyment.
- Culinary Delights: Savor exquisite Peruvian cuisine at top-rated restaurants.
- Iconic Attractions: Visit must-see landmarks in and around Cusco.
- Scenic Train Journey: Relax on a scenic train ride back to Cusco.
- Hiking Adventure: Experience the beauty of the Inca Trail on a memorable day hike.
Join us for a journey that combines culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations! Book your all-inclusive tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Details
Type of Tour: Lodge-Based, Historical with Private Van Transport and Scenic Train Rides
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Personalized Experience with Small Group Sizes
At Peru by Locals, we prioritize the quality of your experience by limiting our group sizes to an average of 2 to 8 guests. This small group dynamic guarantees that you receive personalized attention from your guides, making it easy to engage and connect throughout your journey. We believe that traveling with a close-knit group enhances your understanding and appreciation of this amazing country, unlike larger groups where you might miss out on key interactions.
Comfort and Choice in Accommodation
We offer a selection of 3-star and 5-star hotels for your stay. At the time of booking, you can choose the type of hotel that best suits your needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable experience tailored just for you.
Expert Guides for a Unique Journey
Founded by Jose Condor in 2015, Peru by Locals comprises a team of exceptional guides, each with a university degree and extensive knowledge of the region. Our guides receive annual training through the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), focusing on wilderness first responder skills, history, archaeology, and biology. With their expertise, you’ll gain a deep and enriching understanding of every location you visit.
Direct Operations for Consistent Quality
When you book with us, you travel with us! At Peru by Locals, we don’t outsource our tours to other companies. Based in Cusco, we operate all our trips ourselves, ensuring that you receive a seamless and high-quality experience throughout your adventure.
Convenient Location and Easy Departures
Your journey begins in Cusco city or the Sacred Valley—you choose! To reach us, simply fly into Lima, the capital of Peru, followed by a connecting flight to Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco Airport.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival and City Tour in Cusco
Welcome to Cusco! Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, your dedicated guide will be ready to greet you and escort you to your hotel. On the drive, you’ll catch your first glimpses of the city’s rich history, with highlights of both Incan and colonial architecture along the way. We ensure your accommodations are in the heart of the historical center, conveniently located near top restaurants and key attractions.
Immersive Afternoon Exploration
After a delightful lunch, meet your guide for an enlightening tour of Cusco’s iconic landmarks.
Colonial Cathedral of Cusco
Begin your journey at the Colonial Cathedral, where you’ll admire stunning colonial artwork, including an impressive rendition of The Last Supper, featuring cuy (guinea pig) as the centerpiece—a captivating example of how local culture is woven into historical narratives. This remarkable artwork reflects the unique intersection of faith and tradition characteristic of Cusco’s heritage.
Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Next, visit the Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. Marvel at the incredible architecture that has stood the test of time and earthquakes, showcasing the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. This site offers a profound insight into Incan spirituality, particularly its reverence for the sun.
Sacsayhuamán
Proceed to Sacsayhuamán, an archaeological wonder renowned for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 120 tons. Discover the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Inca builders as you explore this site where stones fit together seamlessly without any mortar. The architectural prowess on display here is unmatched and serves as a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Incas.
Qenqo
Your tour continues to Qenqo, an Incan archaeological site believed to be the Temple of Mother Earth and possibly the final resting place of the renowned Incan ruler, Pachacuti. Delve into the spiritual significance of this site and its role in the Incan civilization.
What’s Included:
- Pick-up from Cusco Airport
- Lunch at a Peruvian restaurant
- Entrance tickets to all attractions
- Expert tour guide
- Transport throughout the tour
- Overnight in Cusco.
Important Note:
To fully enjoy this day’s activities, please ensure your arrival in Cusco is before noon. This scheduling allows you to savor a delicious lunch and embark on a memorable exploration of the city’s historical treasures.
DAY 2: Sacred Valley Tour
Early Morning Pickup
Prepare for an early start with a 7 AM pick-up from your hotel as we embark on an expedition through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley. This region, located northwest of Cusco, is renowned for its lush valleys, small villages, and ancient Incan sites. As the heartland of the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley was historically significant for its rich agricultural production, particularly maize.
Discover the Wonders of the Sacred Valley
Pisaq
Our first stop is Pisaq, an archaeological site where you’ll explore impressive terraces, an ancient cemetery, and intricate water fountains. Take in the stunning views and learn about the significance of this site as you walk among the remnants of Incan life.
Salt Mines of Maras
Next, we’ll visit the Salt Mines of Maras, a remarkable sight with over 3,000 salt ponds clinging to the mountainside. Observe the traditional methods used by local families as they hand-harvest salt, just as their ancestors did centuries ago. This unique site highlights the region’s historical importance and natural resources.
Moray
After the salt mines, we’ll head to Moray, known for its archaeological significance as an agricultural experiment station of the Incas. Here, archeologists discovered evidence of coca leaves and cotton cultivation at high altitudes—a testament to the extraordinary agricultural innovations of the Incan civilization.
Delight in a Culinary Experience
Lunch at Huacatay Restaurant
Indulge in a delicious meal at Huacatay, one of the top-rated restaurants in the Sacred Valley. This culinary treat is sure to be a highlight of your day, featuring local dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Ollantaytambo
Our final destination is the magnificent Inca site of Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll explore its majestic terraces, the impressive Sun Temple, and the lovely Princess Bath, all of which showcase the architectural prowess of the Incas. Your guided tour will last about 1.5 hours, allowing you plenty of time to soak in the historical significance and stunning views.
What’s Included:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Entrance tickets to all attractions
- Expert tour guide
- Private transport throughout the tour
- Lunch at Huacatay restaurant
- One-night hotel accommodation in Cusco
- Overnight in Sacred Valley
DAY 3: Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
Early Morning Pickup
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we collect you from your hotel in the Sacred Valley early this morning (the exact time will be confirmed during your briefing). Our journey begins with a scenic 25-minute van ride to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Scenic Train Journey
Board the train for a 1.5-hour ride to KM104, the starting point of our trek. This remarkable train journey provides stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forests, and charming Andean villages, offering numerous opportunities for breathtaking photos.
Begin the Short Inca Trail
Upon arriving at KM104, we’ll ensure that all equipment is ready before setting off on the Short Inca Trail, which takes us into the serene mountain countryside and the refreshing Andean air.
Hiking to Wiñaywayna
The first segment of our hike features a moderate 3-hour climb to the remarkable Incan ruins of Wiñaywayna (2,650m). Your experienced guide will lead the way, adjusting the pace to accommodate the entire group and taking breaks as needed. As you explore Wiñaywayna, renowned for its beauty and preservation, your guide will share fascinating insights about its historical significance.
Lunch in Nature
We’ve prepared a delicious boxed lunch for you, which we’ll enjoy together at Wiñaywayna while soaking in the stunning surroundings.
Journey to Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
After lunch, we’ll embark on a short, enchanting one-hour hike that will lead us to Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate. Here, your excitement will reach its peak as we catch our first glimpse of Machu Picchu, the legendary lost city of the Incas. This iconic view is truly unforgettable, and we’ll take ample time to capture the moment.
Final Trek to Machu Picchu
Our hike will then continue with a scenic 40-minute downhill trek to the entrance gates of Machu Picchu, where even more stunning photo opportunities await.
Evening in Machu Picchu Town
Having completed the Short Inca Trail, we’ll catch a bus to Machu Picchu town. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner together at one of the best local restaurants, Indio Feliz—a perfect way to unwind after an exhilarating day. After dinner, you’ll retire to your chosen hotel for a well-deserved night’s rest.
Quick Facts:
- Distance Covered: 12 km / 7.4 miles
- Walking Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Lowest Elevation: 2,150m (7,053 ft)
- Highest Elevation: 2,670m (8,759 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Overnight in Aguas Calientes town
DAY 4: Machu Picchu Tour – The Wonder of the Inca World
Discover the Marvel of Machu Picchu
On this exciting day, prepare to explore Machu Picchu, a true masterpiece of Incan architecture and engineering. Nestled in a breathtaking landscape, its unique features contribute to the air of mystery that surrounds this iconic site. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, it forms part of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, celebrated for its cultural and ecological significance.
Early Morning Bus to Machu Picchu
Start your day with an early bus ride to Machu Picchu, ensuring you arrive in time to witness the stunning sunrise over the ancient citadel. As the first light bathes the ruins, you’ll feel the magic of this sacred place.
Guided Exploration of the Incan Marvels
Once at Machu Picchu, your expert guide will lead you on a comprehensive 3-hour tour, delving into the rich culture and history that earned Machu Picchu its status as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Your guide will share fascinating stories and insights throughout your tour, ensuring you gain a complete understanding of Machu Picchu’s historical context and architectural wonders.
Lunch and Return Journey
After your in-depth exploration, return to Machu Picchu town, arriving around 10 AM. Here, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Peru before preparing for the journey back.
What’s Included:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Round-trip bus ride from Machu Picchu town to the site
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Expert tour guide throughout your visit
- Lunch in Machu Picchu town
- Transfer from the train station to your hotel
- Train ride back to Cusco
- Overnight in Cusco
DAY 5: Departure from Cusco – Last Day to Explore
Morning at Leisure
On your final day in Cusco, enjoy some leisure time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Take the opportunity to stroll through the charming streets, explore local shops, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs to remember your incredible journey.
Explore Cusco’s Rich Culture
Consider visiting nearby attractions or indulging in some last-minute shopping for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and Peruvian jewelry. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and local flavors one last time, whether it’s sipping on a cup of authentic Peruvian coffee or enjoying a meal at a café with views of the bustling Plaza de Armas.
Departure Preparations
As your adventure comes to an end, ensure you have everything packed and ready for your journey home or to your next destination.
Transportation to the Airport
At the designated time, one of our friendly representatives will meet you at your hotel to assist you with your departure. Enjoy a smooth transfer to Cusco Airport, where you’ll catch your flight, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had throughout your time in Peru.
Services
Services Included in Your Tour Package
Experience a hassle-free journey with our all-inclusive tour package, designed to offer you the utmost comfort and enjoyment during your stay in Peru. Your tour comes with the following services:
- All Entrance Tickets: Enjoy seamless access to all attractions included in your itinerary.
- Meals: Delight in 4 lunches, 1 dinner, and 4 breakfasts featuring local and traditional cuisine.
- Accommodation: Relax in comfort with 4 nights at Tierra Viva hotels, known for their excellent service and prime locations.
- Expert Tour Guide: Benefit from the knowledge of our professional guides who are passionate about sharing the rich history and culture of Peru.
- Private Transport: Travel in comfort with private transportation for all tours, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Train Ride to Machu Picchu: Enjoy a scenic train journey to the breathtaking Machu Picchu, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Shared Bus Ride: Take a convenient shared bus ride from Machu Picchu town to the entrance of the ruins, adding to the ease of your exploration.
SERVICES EXCLUDED
- Airfares
- Gratuities
Packing list
Essential Packing List for Your Peru Adventure
To ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, please review this comprehensive packing list:
Travel Essentials
- Original Passport: Bring your original passport along with any new passports if applicable. Ensure that the passport information matches your tickets to Machu Picchu.
Clothing
- Good Walking Shoes: Ensure your walking shoes are comfortable and broken in to prevent blisters on the trails.
- Warm Fleece Jacket: Pack a warm jacket for chilly nights; temperatures can drop significantly in the evening.
- Hiking T-Shirts: Bring at least 3 to 4 moisture-wicking t-shirts designed for hiking to keep you comfortable during activities.
- Socks: At least 3 pairs of comfortable, breathable socks are recommended.
- Light Long Pants: Pack light, breathable long pants suitable for hiking, as temperatures can vary.
Accessories
- Sun Hat: Don’t forget a sun hat to shield your face from the sun during outdoor tours.
- Sunscreen: Use SPF 35+ sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays, especially at high altitudes.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright sun and reflections when exploring outdoors.
Gear
- Camera: Capture memories with a camera or smartphone, along with spare batteries for longer excursions.
- Bug Repellent: Essential to ward off mosquitoes, especially in warmer areas.
- Water Bottle: A refillable bottle is a must, as plastic bottles are not permitted in Machu Picchu National Park. Consider a Nalgene bottle or camelback to stay hydrated. Fill it before leaving Cusco, and you can refill as needed.
Personal Items
- Toiletries: Bring your personal hygiene items as needed.
- Prescription Medicines: Inform your trip leader about any medications you are taking for smooth sailing during your trip.
Leisure
- Book to Read: Consider packing a book to enjoy during downtime. We recommend titles such as:
- Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie
- Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time by Mark Adams
Important information
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE DO I MEET THE TEAM?
On the day you arrive at Cusco Airport, your guide will meet you with a sign displaying PERU BY LOCALS and your name. Note that Cusco Airport is small and domestic, making this a straightforward process.
HOW LONG BEFORE SHOULD I BOOK THIS TRIP?
To secure your Machu Picchu permits, we recommend booking your trip at least one month in advance. Early booking is preferable once you have confirmed your travel dates.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN MACHU PICCHU DURING THE YEAR?
The weather in the Machu Picchu region can be quite variable, influenced by its diverse altitudes and ecosystems. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Daytime Temperatures: During the day, temperatures usually range between 18–25°C (65–77°F), providing comfortable conditions for exploration. However, it’s wise to prepare for cooler weather, particularly at higher elevations, where temperatures can drop to around 6°C (42°F).
- Humidity: As Machu Picchu is located near the Amazon jungle, it generally has a humid climate, contributing to occasional rain.
- Seasons:
- Rainy Season: From November to March, expect frequent rainfall, often characterized by short, intense downpours. While it rains almost every day, there are still many sunny intervals.
- Dry Season: Lasting from March to October, this is the ideal time to visit. Despite being the dry season, June and July are typically the coldest months. During this period, daytime temperatures can still reach 23°C (73°F).
WHAT AM I GOING TO EAT ON THE TRIP?
Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy a delightful array of dining options, as all restaurants we use offer à la carte menus. This means you can choose from a variety of dishes, including a range of meat and vegetarian options.
Special Dietary Needs
If you are vegan or have a specific dietary requirement, please let us know in advance. We can arrange for specialized restaurants that cater to your dietary needs.
Recommended Restaurants:
In Cusco:
- Organika: Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on organic cuisine.
- Rukula: A delightful spot known for its delicious dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
- Mistura: Offering a blend of traditional Peruvian flavors and contemporary cuisine.
- Morena: Renowned for its warm ambiance and mouthwatering specialties.
In the Sacred Valley:
- Native: Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Huacatay: A highly-rated restaurant praised for its exceptional dishes and local flavors.
In Aguas Calientes:
- Indio Feliz: A favorite among travelers for its charming decor and delightful menu.
- Mistura: Similar to its namesake in Cusco, offering a fantastic selection of traditional and contemporary dishes.
- Full House: Known for its friendly service and diverse offerings, perfect for a satisfying meal after a day of exploring.
SHOULD I TIP THE GUIDES? IF I DO, HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP?
Yes, we recommend tipping your guides to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
Tipping is customary in Peru and helps to recognize the excellent service you receive during your adventure.
Thank you for considering this gesture of appreciation!
HOW BIG WILL MY GROUP BE?
Small Group Specialization for a Personalized Experience
At Peru by Locals, we prioritize small group sizes to ensure our clients receive personalized service throughout their journey. This intimate approach allows for a more enriching experience as you explore various attractions, including Incan sites, local flora, and fauna.
Why Choose Small Groups?
- Enhanced Learning: With fewer participants, your guide can dedicate more time to each guest, offering in-depth insights into our rich culture and history.
- Intimate Experience: Enjoy a more connected and interactive atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide.
- Group Size: We limit our tours to a maximum of 8 people, but you’ll often find our groups consist of just 2 to 8 guests. This creates a cozy environment, enhancing your adventure and making it truly memorable.
HOW DO I GET WATER ON THE TOURS?
During your tours, we will provide water in the vehicle to keep you hydrated. To promote sustainability and reduce waste, we recommend bringing Nalgene water bottles or camel bags for easy refills.
Additional Water Sources:
- You may encounter locals selling bottled water along the route. However, please be mindful that not everyone disposes of waste responsibly, which can contribute to littering.
- We encourage you to refill your bottles whenever possible, helping us protect our environment and preserve the beauty of nature.
Please Note: Most hotels in Peru do not have facilities to refill water bottles, so it’s important to be prepared before you start your tour.
Thank you for supporting our green initiative and helping to care for the environment!
CAN I PAY THE REST OF THE BALANCE WITH A CREDIT CARD OR DOES IT HAVE TO BE IN CASH?
For your convenience, we prefer to collect the remaining balance in cash to avoid any additional fees. This way, you won’t incur extra costs during your payment process.
Alternative Payment Methods:
- While you can use PayPal or a credit card, please note that these options incur fees typically exceeding 5% of the total amount.
On the day of your briefing, when your guide meets you, our representative will also be there to collect the remaining balance for your trek.
PERUVIAN CURRENCY
The Peruvian sol is the currency of Peru, and it usually fluctuates between 3.3 to 3.8 Nuevo sol to 1 US Dollar.
LANGUAGE
Spanish is the national language of Peru, and about 20% of Peruvians speak Quechua (Inca language). Our guides are fluent in Spanish and English.
Why Choose Peru by Locals?
Tailor-Made Experiences
At Peru by Locals, we specialize in creating customized treks and tours that cater to your personal interests and preferences. Our goal is to ensure that every journey is unique and memorable.
Commitment to Excellence
We are dedicated to providing world-class tours underpinned by exceptional customer service. As a locally owned travel company based in Cusco, we bring decades of first-hand experience in the Peruvian tourism sector.
Multilingual Expertise
Our team is well-equipped to assist you, speaking English, Spanish, and Quechua (the Inca language), ensuring clear communication throughout your trip.
Professional Guides
Our guides are not only passionate about sharing their knowledge of Incan history, Peruvian culture, and the local flora and fauna, but they are also trained in wilderness first aid and tourism management, ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to protecting the environment and creating sustainable practices. This includes empowering local communities through fair labor practices and initiatives that support the development of the families of porters.
Community Programs
We actively support local development by participating in projects like tree planting and providing school supplies to underprivileged communities. Additionally, we have established an Education Fund to sponsor the education of children from porter families, contributing a percentage of income from every tour to this cause.
Diverse Itineraries
Our trips are carefully crafted to meet your needs, offering a wide range of unique itineraries from 1 to 15 days in length. Whether you’re interested in history, food, photography, or adventure, we guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Small Group Specialists
At Peru by Locals, we understand the value of small groups. Our average tour size is between 4 to 8 people, allowing for personalized experiences and flexibility in exploring lesser-known destinations. This small group dynamic enhances your adventure and makes it more enjoyable.
Join us for an unforgettable journey with Peru by Locals, where adventure and culture meet in the heart of Peru! Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family, we look forward to creating lasting memories together.
Price
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Machu Picchu Travel, Cusco & Sacred Valley - Peru by Locals
City Tour Sacred Valley Machu picchu travel - tour the Salt mines and hike the short Inca trail to Machu Picchu
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GROUP SERVICE
Our tour groups are very important. We run tours from 2 to 8 people usually per group, and we open any tour dates with 2 guests. This service is considered semi-private for personalized experiences, so you can take advantage of your valid time.
Accommodations
Costs are based on double bedroom occupancy and US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perubylocals.com or our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).
To assure your booking with us, we will require a 20% deposit pre-payment of the total cost and the outstanding remaining will be paid 30 days prior to your trip.
Choosing this option
- Once a tour date is opened with 2 guests, the travel date probably won’t be changed later.
- This is a great option to meet other travelers and hang out during the trip.
- The quality of service is the same as private.
- If for any reason you or others can’t continue the tour for any reason, the tour will go as planned from the beginning to the end.
PRIVATE SERVICE
Our private service can start from 1 person to any number you desire, and you can choose your travel date.
Accommodations
We run all our tours with 3-star hotels but we can customize with 5-star hotels.
Costs are based on double bedroom occupancy and US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perubylocals.com or our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).
To assure your booking with us, we will require a 20% deposit pre-payment of the total cost and the outstanding remaining will be paid 30 days prior to your trip.
Choosing this option
- We cater this tour to your needs with flexibility.
- Once a tour date is opened, it can still be changed if time allows at your requested time.
- This is a great option to spend time with your parents, family, and friends or travel for special occasions such as a honeymoon.
- The quality of service is the same as other tours.
