Embarking on the Inca Trail hike is an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, physical endurance, and rich history. Over four days and three nights, you carry your backpack through the Andes, slept on the hard ground in a tent, and endured rain and grueling stone steps to Machu Picchu. But it’s worth it.
For the first-time traveler, Inca Trail Hike seems difficult. However, the right preparation can make this hike an adventure of lifetime.
Flight to Cusco: How to book?
Book your flight in advance with a reputable airline. Keep in mind:
Accommodation in Cusco: is it affordable?
Cusco serves as the base for Inca Trail tours, so you’ll need lodging before and after the hike. The city is filled with affordable hostels to make it easier to stay comfortably. Campsite stay will be managed by the tour operator that you book for the hike.
Confirm that your hotel or tour company provides secure luggage storage for the belongings you won’t take on the trail. Many offer this service for free.
Inca Trail Tours: How to Book an Inca Trail Trip and manage permits?
Book easily with Qoricancha Expeditions.
Peru strictly regulates access to the trail, allowing only about 200 daily permits for travelers. These are typically reserved through tour operators. However, you can stay confident about it with Qoricancha Expeditions.
Tour prices generally cover meals, tents, transportation, and entrance to Machu Picchu. Extras like sleeping bags or trekking poles can be rented.
What is the best time to planInca Trail Hike?
The best time to hike is May through August, during the dry season when rain is less likely. July and August are the busiest months, so consider booking in May or June for smaller crowds. Hiking in mid-May means enjoying near-perfect weather, though it’s wise to prepare for unpredictable conditions regardless of the season.
Preparing for the Inca Trail
Immunizations and medications
Plan ahead for any required immunizations, such as typhoid and Hepatitis A. Consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication to avoid feeling ill during the trek.
Physical training
The trail demands physical strength and endurance. Try increasing your leg workouts to twice a week, focusing on squats, lunges, and calf raises to prepare for the steep stone steps. Cardio is equally important to build stamina for hiking at high altitudes.
Practice hikes
Test your fitness and gear with practice hikes. You can think of completing one day hike and one overnight hike before the trip to boost your confidence and determine the functionality of your equipment.
Insider Tips for the Trail
Travel insurance
Don’t skip travel insurance, especially for an adventure like the Inca Trail. Ensure your plan covers trekking and other high-risk activities to protect yourself in case of illness or injury.
With thoughtful preparation and a sense of adventure, Inca Trail hike will be an unforgettable experience. Follow these tips, and you’ll be ready to conquer the Andes and marvel at the majesty of Machu Picchu.
After a friend’s recommendation, we decided to book with Qoricancha Expeditions, believing they would be the perfect tour company to introduce us to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. They exceeded our expectations in every aspect. If you are looking for a tour or guide for the Sacred Valley area, look no further. You’ve come to the right place!
Our family of four had an incredible two-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Victor was an outstanding guide, extremely positive, professional, and knowledgeable about the relevant history of the sights we visited. Although Machu Picchu was as spectacular as one would expect, our favorite experiences occurred on the first day.
My friends and I booked the 2 day Inca Trail hike with Qoricancha Expeditions, it was a wonderful time and experience.
The hike: A solid day of hiking in our group of 7 to reach Machu Picchu. Visiting interesting inca sites along the way. The hike was challenging but manageable as you navigated up and down the mountains and through the jungle.
After we contacted many tour agencies in Cusco we have decided to go with Qoricancha Expeditions, We did the Classic 4 days Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu and it was incredible! Our guide, Simon impressed us with his in-depth knowledge of the region and his passion for helping others experience it. He had just the right blend of being informative without being overly talkative.
