Preparing to Hike The Inca Trail

Before you leave home for Your Inca Trail Hike

• Visit a medical clinic before you travel, your doctor will be able to give you the injections you need for the locations you wish to visit on your Peru vacation packages. Vaccines and medications are one of the best ways to protect yourself while traveling. Vaccines for Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Tetanus, and a rabies vaccine are our recommendations for traveling to Peru. There are also other illnesses you could encounter, such as the famous Travelers' Diarrhoea, and colds (there are different cold viruses in Peru) are the most common things you may encounter when you travel to Peru for your Inca Trail trek.

 

Day Hikes at Home

 

• Pack a good first aid kit, you may think that you do not need this but this is an essential part of any preparation for The Inca Trail. Take the essentials like anti-diarrheal medication, antihistamine, anti-motion sickness medication, pain relievers, laxatives, antacids, anti-bacterial ointment, hand sanitizer, band-aids, cream for sunburn, and rehydration salts.  if you don’t need them then great, but it is better to have a fully equipped first Aid kit on the Inca Trail than not! Remember, your Inca Trail trek involves trekking in remote regions where medical facilities are scarce or non-existent.
• Travel Insurance, we all know when traveling this is an extra expense that you might not be thinking about for your Inca Trail trip. However, a basic travel insurance policy is essential for your Inca Trail trip and any travel in Peru. Obviously, we hope that all will run smoothly, but, if something should happen, you can at least rely on your insurance policy for emergency treatment and to help get you home if necessary. Without it, you may be in serious trouble during your Machu Picchu vacation!
• Build up your fitness level with aerobic training, or cardiovascular training before hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This refers to exercise or activities that use oxygen to adequately meet the demands of exercise through aerobic metabolism and should be the focus of your preparation. Swimming, running, and hiking, are all excellent ways to prepare for your Inca Trail adventure.

 

Train Before Your Inca Trail Trek!

• Mental Preparation. Training for Machu Picchu is as much about your physical endurance as it is about your mental stamina. There will be points along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu that are particularly tough, usually on the trails up to high passes such as Dead Woman’s Pass. Despite tired legs and sore bodies, you will need to be able to dig deep to push yourself up and over these passes. Make sure you have a positive attitude before arriving in Cusco. That means preparing yourself mentally for your Inca Trail challenge ahead!

 

Get Fit for The Inca Trail!

 

During your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

Water:

Anywhere you travel in the world you need to be careful with the drinking water. Normally what most people do is buy bottled water, this is the best idea but make sure that the seal is intact. For the Inca Trail, it is important to take a refillable water bottle as pre-boiled water will be provided by our chef. This is also a good way to protect the environment and avoid the use of unnecessary plastics along your journey on the Inca Trail to discover Machu Picchu. Taking purification tablets is also a good idea depending on the season you are trekking the Inca Trail. In dry season water is harder to come by, but don´t worry, we have you covered all along the Inca Trail trek! We also provide plenty of hot drinks that help keep you hydrated, warm and you know the water has been boiled to avoid any stomach issues on the Inca Trail trek.

Food: 

Eat healthy and in reputable restaurants before your Inca Trail trek to avoid illness. Getting sick before the Inca trail is not a good way to prepare for this challenging Peru hiking tour! Remember that your body is dealing with the altitude gain even before you begin to trek the iconic Inca Trail and getting sick could take away valuable travel time on your trip to Peru. Wait until after The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek to sample or experiment with the local cuisine and try all of the delicious dishes (and pisco sours) on offer during your Peru tour package!

 

Food On The Inca Trail

 

The Altitude:

Take it easy when you arrive in Cusco and drink plenty of water. Do not take the altitude lightly this can make you feel sick and you do not want to spoil your Machu Picchu Trek via the Inca Trail. For the first few days in Cusco, do nothing more than stroll around until you feel your breathing is normal and you are used to the thinner air. After a couple of days do some day hikes around the local archaeological sites or some mountain biking in The Sacred Valley fo example, which is at lower elevation.

Alcohol:

Save the parties and drinking until after your Inca Trail, your body will thank you for it. Alcohol can cause terrible hangovers at altitude and should be avoided, at least while you are acclimatizing 😊 In any case, you will probably want to celebrate completing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu so save the Pisco Sours until after the Inca Trail!

Hotels:

The top-end hotels throughout Peru usually have decent gyms and excellent spa facilities to help you keep fit and well during your stay. There are a number of wellness options for those who are looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle during their Machu Picchu vacation packages, ask us at Valencia Travel for more information on wellness options for either before or after your Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.

Staying for long periods of time in Peru:

If you plan to stay in Peru for a while, there are plenty of hiking options to help you keep fit.  The most famous of course is The Inca Trail, however, there are many different trekking options. There are a number of hiking clubs in Cusco for example, where you can keep fit and also enjoy some of the more off-the-beaten-track trekking routes of the Andes in the company of other trekkers.

You can also sign up for a local gym if you want to maintain your fitness regime from back home before you hike the Inca Trail. Explain to the trainer how long you have been traveling in Peru, or at high altitude, and that you want to prepare for The Inca Trail Expedition to Machu Picchu. They will make sure you are not over-exerting yourself, especially in Cusco or other high-altitude cities, when you first arrive.

 

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High Altitude and Acclimatization Tips for Hiking to Machu Picchu

If you are planning to travel to Peru to hike the epic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, you will experience an incredibly diverse range of landscapes and habitats where you can take part in all types of adventurous and cultural activities. One of the ultimate experiences to be enjoyed in Peru is the incredible Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu which can be found at over 2400 meters above sea level, and close to the city of Cusco. Trekking along the Inca Trail can be a phenomenal experience for even the most worldly-wise trekker however, acclimatization to the altitude is just as important as not forgetting your walking boots for the Inca Trail or taking plenty of water on Machu Picchu trips!  Remember, acclimatization is a lot more complex than simply popping a few tablets. Here are some top tips to help you avoid suffering from high altitude when you arrive for your guided trek to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail.

 

Spectacular Views on The Inca Trail

 

Take it Easy When You Arrive For Your Inca Trail Trip

On arrival in Cusco, first thing is first, there should be no rushing around. The best thing to do is take it easy for the first 24 hours. The remarkable Inca sites will still be there the following day! The same can definitely be said for the Andes Mountains and if you have made plans to trek at high altitude in Peru, such as the Machu Picchu Trek via the Inca Trail, then plan your ascent over a period of days. This gives your body time to adjust, rather than just heading off into the mountains to hike the Inca Trail, after leaving your bags at your hotel.

Relax as You Acclimatize for The Inca Trail

There are plenty of amazing things to do in the city of Cusco and if you can allow yourself as much time as possible to relax and take things easy then you will be in much better shape for when you start to take things to a higher level on The Inca trail. Coffee shops, reading material, and getting to know the area, are all excellent ways to relax in Cusco, and as there are some impressive examples of Inca architecture to be visited before you set off on your epic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure. It is definitely worth taking a look around Cusco on a Cusco City tour as part of your acclimatization to the high altitude in the Andean region of Peru.

 

Relaxing in The Sacred Valley

 

Pack Light On The Inca Trail

Make sure you only take the absolute necessities on the Inca Trail trek. Carrying an overweight backpack will not only slow you down but will over-exert you in areas where there is less oxygen at higher elevations of the Inca Trail trek and the difficult terrains that you will be facing.  You can store your main luggage at your Cusco hotel or at our office and we will provide you with a duffle bag that a porter will carry. Remember, the incredible Inca Trail porters have weight limits for their safety along the Inca Trail trek, and if they are over the statuary weight, you will have to carry the weight difference yourself! These incredible human beings will carry your gear for the Inca Trail as well as the camping equipment!  This means that you only need to carry your essentials in your day pack for each trekking day along the Inca Trail. So, remember to pack light for everyone’s sake!

 

Pack Light on The Inca Trail!

 

Eat Well In Preparation for The Inca Trail Trek

This refers to eating the correct way and the right meals on your arrival to Cusco… not eating everything in sight! Salads (washed in purified water), sandwiches, and plenty of water are excellent in order to prepare your body for any potential altitude issues. Don´t forget, your digestive system slows down at high altitudes so smaller more frequent meals are the way to go instead of massive plates of food. Try and stick to carbs instead of greasy food to keep your energy levels up. This is the best preparation for the Inca Trail hike!

Avoid Alcohol Before the Inca Trail, At least!

Although all that sitting around as you acclimatize for your Inca Trail adventure can often lead to the more sociable side of life in Peru, it is worth avoiding alcohol until your body has acclimatized to the altitude. Feeling nauseous, dizzy, and suffering severe headaches can really take their toll even without a few drinks and when altitude is combined with alcohol the effects can be seriously nasty. Save the pisco sours until after the Inca Trail trek!

The Magical Coca Leaf On The Inca Trail

For centuries, the humble coca leaf has been used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes in the Andes. This magical leaf helps to combat altitude symptoms, act as a diuretic, and is downright tasty! Whether you make a herbal brew or chew them directly, this incredible natural remedy will help with the headaches and other side effects of high altitude, immediately.  The porters on the Inca Trail, swear by them (take some to give to the porters as a gift…and they will be eternally grateful!) for the extra energy boost.  They carry all the camping equipment and your belongings along the iconic Inca Trail, so any extra assistance is always welcome, as you will soon find out as you are summiting Dead Woman´s Pass!

 

Mate de Coca

 

Time is a great healer as they say, and it certainly is when it comes to adequate acclimatization before your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Allow in general 2 to 3 days of acclimatization before even thinking about venturing along the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Your body will thank you for it and you will have a much better Inca Trail trekking experience if you are feeling at your best. Find out more about trekking The Inca Trail with Valencia Travel here.

 

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Day by day Hiking Distances on the Trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you are hiking the legendary four-day Trek along The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu,  or The Classic Inca Trail, or the Classic Inca Trail -Premium over 4 days or 5 days the distances hiked are the same.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is often considered one of the most magnificent treks in the world. The Inca Trail weaves its way through Peru's stunning Andean scenery, offering an unforgettable adventure through history and nature. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a novice hiker, the Inca Trail trek is an experience that will leave you in awe. To fully enjoy the remarkable Inca trail trek to Machu Picchu, it's crucial to understand the day-by-day hiking distances. Here, we will guide you through the Inca trail's key points, ensuring that your Machu Picchu trek is not just a hike but a journey of discovery and inspiration. Here are the day-by-day trekking distances for the Classic Inca Trail. 

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is often considered one of the most magnificent treks in the world, weaves through Peru's stunning Andean landscape, offering an unforgettable journey through history and nature. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a novice hiker, this trek is an experience that will leave you awestruck. To fully enjoy this remarkable trail, it's crucial to understand the day-by-day hiking distances on the Inca Trail. Here, we will guide you through the trail's key points, ensuring that your trek is not just a hike but a journey of discovery and inspiration. Here are the day-by-day trekking distances for the Classic Inca Trail. 

 

Trekking Distances on The Inca Trail

 

Day-by-Day Trekking Distances

The Classic Inca Trail may only be about 42 km (26 miles) long, but it goes up and down and along mountains, rising up through three mountain passes, and generally takes a circuitous route through the tricky terrain of The Andes. This makes the Inca Trail it a more strenuous 42 km hike than most, but also one with spectacular scenery, passing through various Andean environments including cloud forests and jagged mountain tops.

Day 1: 11 KM / 6.8 Miles. (6-7 hours approx).

Day 2: 12 KM / 7.4 Miles. (6-7 hours approx).

Day 3: 16 KM / 10 Miles. (8 hours approx).

Day 4:  6 KM / 3.7 Miles. (2 hours approx).

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just a trek; it's a testament to Inca ingenuity and the allure of human exploration. As you reach the end of your legendary trek along the Inca Trail Machu Picchu, you'll carry with you not just photographs and memories but a profound sense of accomplishment and wonder that will stay with you, long after your epic Inca Trail adventure is over!

 

We Did The Inca Trail!

 

Starting and Ending Points for Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is often considered one of the most magnificent treks in the world, weaves through Peru's stunning Andean landscape, and offers an unforgettable journey through history and nature. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a novice hiker, the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is an experience that will leave you awestruck. To fully enjoy the remarkable Inca Trail, it's crucial to understand the starting and ending points of the Inca Trail. Here, we will guide you through the trail's key points, ensuring that your Inca Trail trek is not just a hike but a journey of discovery and inspiration. Here are the most common starting and ending points for treks in Peru.

The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Starting Point: Kilometer 82.

On any of our Inca Trail to Machu Picchu treks, we will collect you from your hotel at the pre-arranged time. We will travel in our private car to the trailhead for your Inca Trail trek, whether that be Kilometer 82 in the case of the 4-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu, or kilometer 104 in the case of The short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure begins at Kilometer 82, located a few hours outside of Cusco. This is the official starting point for most trekkers. Here, you'll meet your knowledgeable guides and fellow travelers, gearing up for an unforgettable Inca Trail experience.

Llaqtapata: As you start your Inca Trail trek, the first archaeological site you encounter is Llaqtapata, a beautiful Inca ruin. This lesser-known gem allows you to connect with the ancient Inca civilization right from the start.

Huayllabamba: After Llaqtapata, your Inca trail continues to Huayllabamba, a small Andean village. It's your last chance to stock up on supplies, such as snacks and water before you delve deeper into The Inca Trail.

Camping at Ayapata: Your first day of trekking concludes at Ayapata, where you'll set up camp. This peaceful spot allows you to acclimatize to the altitude, making your journey more enjoyable.

 

Inca Trail Campsite

 

Ending Point: Machu Picchu.

The culmination of your Inca Trail to Machu Pichu adventure is, without a doubt, the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This ancient city, nestled high in the Andes, is the ultimate reward for your effort. As you approach the Sun Gate, the iconic image of Machu Picchu will unfold before your eyes, leaving you breathless with its magnificence.

Inti Punku (Sun Gate): Your first glimpse of Machu Picchu will be from the Inti Punku or Sun Gate. As the sun rises, Machu Picchu is bathed in a golden glow, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Machu Picchu: The heart of your journey, Machu Picchu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the intricate stonework, the Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana stone, all while learning about the history and culture of the Inca civilization.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining physical challenge with cultural and historical immersion. By understanding the starting and ending points, you can make the most of your epic journey along The iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!

                                   

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 

 Starting Point: Km 104 

 Your two-day Inca Trail adventure begins at Kilometer 104, a spot accessible by train from Cusco. It's an ideal starting point for trekkers looking to experience the essence of the Inca Trail within a more manageable timeframe. 

 Wiñay Wayna: As you embark on your journey from Km 104, Chachabamba is the first archaeological site you will encounter. The next breathtaking sight you'll encounter is the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. This well-preserved Inca ruin showcases intricate terracing, temples, and ceremonial baths, offering a taste of the trail's historical richness. 

 Hiking to Machu Picchu: Unlike the traditional four-day trek, the two-day route takes you directly to the Sun Gate (Intipunku). Along the way, you'll immerse yourself in lush cloud forest landscapes, colorful orchids, and birdwatching opportunities. 

 Ending Point: Machu Picchu 

Your two-day Inca Trail adventure visits the majestic Machu Picchu, on the second day.  Here, you will witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this iconic Inca city, nestled high in the Andes. 

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain: For those seeking an extra challenge, consider hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These steep peaks provide unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Machu Picchu itself. 

 

Huayna Picchu Mountain!

 

*Please note that the ending point of the trek is Machu Picchu, however, Valencia Travel always includes the transport back to your chosen hotel in Cusco. In the case of the 2 day Inca Trail, you will take the train back to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station, where our private transport will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel :) 

The Best Packing List for Hiking to Machu Picchu

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. By hiking the trail, you’ll get to see smaller ruin sites and follow the path Incas took for centuries, arriving at Machu Picchu right at sunrise. Because of the high altitude and difficult trail conditions, though, having the right gear is essential!  Packing for the Inca Trail is serious business, because if you forget to pack something important, you’ll regret it; but equally, if you pack too much, you’ll resent the extra weight on your back, along the Inca Trail!  Check out our ultimate packing list for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. here!