After some careful research on the web, I chose CHASKA TOURS for my Inca Trail Experience. I was EXTRA CAREFUL because I was brining a special guest...I carried my 19 month old daughter in her special baby-backpack for the entire length of the Inca Trail. So I was especially concerned that I choose a company with a good reputation.

I called them several times using Skype and spoke to Raymond, a dutch ex-pat who manages the place. HE IS AMAZING! I put me so at ease, answered every one of my questions concerning my daughter, and helped me understand and plan getting from Lima to Cusco. After checking Internet prices on LAN for the Lima-Cusco flight, I was shocked to see how expensive they were. When I mentioned this to Raymon in an email, he told me that he could arrange to purchase the tickets for me at less than HALF the internet price!! I was elated. I am telling you I have never had such great customer service, and all of this before I even showed up.

He sent me with emails in the ensuing months, keeping me up to date, making sure everything was OK, letting me know about flight times changes, etc. He gave me advice for what to do in Cusco, and convinced me to change my plans so that I gave myself an extra day to acclimate before going on the trail, all of these recommendations were invaluable. CHASKA TOURS doesn't just take you out on the trail, they give you an entire travel agency-like experience.

Finally, THE TRAIL! We were privileged to have Chris assigned to us as our guide. Chris has done the Inca Trial over 300 times as a guide. He is amazing. I felt like I had a brother at my side for the entire trail. He was GREAT with my daughter, a true friend, an intrepid hiker, and his easy-going demeanor and reassuring and encouraging attitude kept us moving during those ultra-tough moments at high elevations. There was never a moment of negativity with him. He is one of those truly great people you meet in life who stay with you forever.

I just have to mention two things: carrying my daughter the entire 26 miles was more difficult than I anticipated. I am a professional photographer and I had a 8 pound camera with me that I intended to carry on my neck the entire route. This proved problematic by the 2nd day. Chris graciously carried my camera for me most of the rest of the way. Then, I (stupidly) forgot to bring cash with me on the trial so that I could have money to spend in the town at the end of the trail. Chris lent me money, bought my lunch for me, and then met me in town later in the evening so I could repay him. :-)

If I sound too effusive, forgive me...these guys really did a superb job and made my experience fantastic.