New Regulations for Machu Picchu: To assure the preservation of Machu Picchu, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism is considering implementing two shifts to visit the site: from 6:00a.m. to 12:00pm and from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. If this is to be applied, the regulation would take effect in January 2018. At this time no final decision has been made. Ongoing discussions continue with interested parties. We will keep you up-dated.

New Luxury Sleeper Train in Peru: Luxury travel operator Belmond has launched South America's first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer. The train will travel along one of the highest rail routes on earth, traversing the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa. Cabins come in suite/double, twin and bunk configurations, each with its own en-suite and shower. Two elegant dining cars serve fresh and seasonal dishes using locally sourced ingredients, while an observation car offers an open deck with spectacular views and a lounge car features music from a baby grand piano and invites you to sip Pisco sours while enjoying the scenery.

Inca Trail News: Due to the current closure of Winay Wayña campsite, Phuyupatamarca campsite has become busier. The authorities closed the camp as they need to do some stabilization work after the heavy rains. Km 104 Inca Trail has been affected by a landslide, so is currently closed. People booked on this are now taking the train two kilometres further, to KM106 and climbing up the trail from here to Winay Wayña. From here on the trail is the same through the Sun Gate. The route is now 8 km instead of 12km. We are told the campsites and trail return to normal sometime in June 2017.

Medical Insurance Required to Visit Ecuador: Beginning September 4, 2017, all travelers who enter Ecuador must have proof of public or private health insurance for their entire stay in the country. For those travelling to the Galapagos, a scanned copy confirming medical insurance may be required to book the Galapagos cruise. If the traveler can’t provide proof of medical insurance, the immigration official may deny entry into Ecuador and the Galapagos.

Ecuador and Yellow fever : Since February 10, 2017, it is mandatory for travelers coming to Ecuador from Brazil, Angola, Congo, or Uganda to be vaccinated for Yellow Fever, and to bring the respective International Vaccination Certificate.