If you’re up to this adventure or still about to decide if the Inca Trail is the right trek for you, here’s what you should take into consideration before starting this multi-day hike to Machu Picchu. We want you to have a great experience through the Andes, but remember, it will be better if you take the time to exercise before coming to Peru.
The Classic Inca Trail is the most sought-after alternative to reach the ancient citadel of the Incas, which is why it is advisable to book this adventure at least 6 months in advance. Keep in mind that the Inca Trail permit is limited to 500 visitors per day, including porters, guides and cooks.
However, the logistics for booking the Inca Trail are kind of easy in comparison to the preparation you need to have for the trek. On average, you’ll be walking about 12 km per day and will get you over 4,200 meters above sea level, so yes it is undoubtedly a challenge.
Therefore, preparing for the Inca Trail isn’t only about ‘getting fit’ but also taking some time in Cusco to acclimate properly as well. Luckily for you, here we have gathered some tips to help you get ready for an unforgettable experience through the Andes and the high jungle.
Things to Do Before Coming to Peru
Yes, we know, everyone’s first question about the Inca Trail is: How fit should I be to do this trek? Well… there is not a right answer to that but it will totally depend on personal fitness level.
As we mentioned above, the Inca Trail is not an easy task, it will push you to high-altitude locations and the longest day could take up to 16 km of walking distance. So, if you are a physically active person, you should consider upping your current training routine.
However, if you’ve come to the realization that you might not be that fit, then it would be best to start right away. We recommend exercising from 3 to 6 months before your trip, following a strict routine focused on building your cardiovascular system and strengthening your legs.
To start, you could simply take a 10-kilometer hike in your hometown, but make sure to choose routes with rocky terrain and steep inclines if possible. Long-distance running and cycling are great to help you process oxygen, whilst aerobic exercises are key to strengthen your lower body.
Another point to highlight is mental preparation since the trail will take you on a 4-day adventure pushing you to the limit. Therefore, don’t forget to mentally prepare yourself for the challenge ahead, endurance is key to finish this historical trail.
Although the route will take you through very tough segments, you will also have time to rest and to walk through nearly flat parts that will allow you to take in the beautiful natural setting that surrounds you.
Likewise, you’ll always have a guide with you that can assist with any inconvenience you may have, while also setting a consistent pace along the trek. Remember, it is not a race, it is mostly mind over matter that will take you to the next camp every day.
Acclimatizing for the Inca Trail
Another factor that can’t be simply ignored is the Altitude Sickness, a condition that affects most travelers over 1,000 m.a.s.l. Make sure to keep this in mind since Cusco will be the starting point of the trek and this city sits on an elevation of 3,400 m.a.s.l.
The so-called Soroche in Spanish can be quite dangerous if not treated immediately, this condition could ruin days of your itinerary. So take things calmly and allow your body to get used to this new air pressure. Luckily, not everyone gets to experience it, but it’s always best to be cautious since this condition can affect anyone regardless of their fitness level.
Here we have gathered 5 tips that have helped locals and foreign travelers to prevent it while traveling to the Peruvian highlands:
- Keep yourself hydrated
The water will be your best ally to fight and prevent this condition, so make sure to drink enough liquid throughout your stay. Higher altitudes are associated with dehydration as a result of dryer air and more rapid breathing, causing a greater loss of bodily fluids.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at all costs
Yes, we know this is hard and even worse if you’re on vacation but trust us, it’s best to wait at least 48 hours before drinking alcohol or smoking. These could worsen dehydration and shortness of breath if ingested on the first days of your stay.
- Drink Coca tea or chew Coca leaves
The Coca plant is a medicinal herb used since pre-Columbian times. It is known for helping to ease any altitude sickness symptoms and improving acclimatization. You can either drink tea or just chew on the leaves.
- Eat a light but high-calorie diet
Higher altitudes increase our need for fuel, which is why it is best to have a calorie-based diet. Make sure to eat healthy snacks including lots of whole grains in your meals.
- Take it easy
The key to everything in life! Don’t rush yourself, take the necessary time to get used to the altitude and don’t do any physically demanding activities during your first days. In the meantime, you can take a walking tour through the city you’re visiting or just rest.
If you’re wondering if there are any medicines that can help you with the altitude sickness symptoms, you could buy Diamox or Soroche Pills from any drugstore in Peru. However, we recommend consulting with a doctor first before taking any of these medications.
It is worth noting once again that the guides are capacitated to help you deal with Soroche in case you’re experiencing any symptoms. For more information about this condition, check this blog about what to take for altitude sickness in Peru while you’re here.
Getting the right gear is the key…
Although all tour operators include the camping and kitchen equipment in their packages, you’ll need to get some personal gear for the trek. If you don’t want to carry the extra weight back home, you can rent some trekking gear in Cusco.
While on the trek, you’ll only need to worry about your day backpack since the muleteers and porters will take care of the rest, as well as your duffel bag so you can travel light and with just the essentials. Here’s a list about the things you should carry with you at all times:
- A water resistant backpack. Regardless of the season, this will be very useful for the Inca Trail, remember that this ancient route takes you through the Andes until the cloud forest, so the weather can be very unpredictable. It is best to be prepared for the rain at any point of the year, specially in the last two days of the trek.
- A raincoat or poncho. As we mentioned above, it is better to have it and not need it than needing it and not having it. A raincoat is an unmissable item in every trekker’s backpack! Remember you’ll be crossing the high jungle.
- Insect repellent and after-bite. We don’t want to alarm you but the mosquitos along this trail are kind of annoying, especially during the rainy season, and the bites are something you don’t want to deal with, trust us. So make sure to bring some insect repellent and after-bite with you for this trek.
- A reusable water bottle. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek. Remember that the Inca Trail will take you to altitudes over 4,000 meters, make sure to drink enough water to prevent any altitude sickness symptoms.
- Sun protection. Protect your skin at all costs throughout the trek! Make sure to use a high SPF sunscreen and to re-apply it every hour. Also, don’t forget to bring sunglasses and a sunhat for this adventure.
- Warm clothes. As we said earlier, the trail will take you through different ecosystems with distinctive weather conditions. Therefore, it would be wise to pack warm clothes like gloves, thermals, lycra active tops, wooly hats and some trekking pants or shorts.
- Passport. Please do not forget this! You will need it to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, so please, let this be the first thing on your packing list.
And yes, the list goes on! There are so many things to keep in mind that we had to make a whole section about it. If you want more information about what to pack for the Inca Trail, make sure to read our special guide while you’re here.
Likewise, there are some things that you should not forget when visiting the Inca Citadel, so here’s a blog about the ultimate Machu Picchu packing list.
As you can see, the Inca Trail isn’t as easy as booking the tour and entrance ticket. There are so many things to keep in mind that you should know about and we want you to have all the information.
Peru is a country full of historical and natural wonders, and we want to show you a bit of everything! Don’t forget to check our Peru travel packages and start planning the perfect vacation trip with us.