Rainy season days almost always bring drizzle or rain. First, make sure to book your tour on the Inca Trail well in advance as the tours sell out quickly and you can only go with a tour group or private certified guide. Note in the sectional view of the trail map that Abra de Warmiwanusca is the highest point in the trek with an elevation of 13,795 feet (4,205 meters). Every extra pound matters! Just make sure that if yours have exposed spikes, you buy some rubber stoppers in order to use them for the Trail. On the first two days of the Trail, there are also local people who have set up toilets for trekkers (charging S/. However, the altitude at its highest point is 13,776 ft or 4200m, which can sometimes cause problems for hikers. This will vary from tour to tour, and also may evolve as Machu Picchu continues to change its own rules and restrictions to abate UNESCOs concerns, but on our own tour we enjoyed a full morning to explore Machu Picchu from about 7 a.m. until 11.30 a.m. (we could have stayed another hour but by that point we were desperate for a beer and lunch!). . Physically prepare by training at home in the months leading up to your trip. Theyre easily my picj for the best Inca Trail tour. Inca Trail - Travel guide at Wikivoyage Before starting the trek, spending some time in Cusco (11,150 ft/3,400 m) will help your body adjust. Pack thermal undergarments, a warm hat, and gloves for evenings. They work hard, and based on your experience, you can even tip more. Nope, and this is one of the best things about it. If your budget is a little higher, or youd prefer a longer organised tour in Peru, they also offer a 14-day National Geographic Iconic Peru tour which includes the Inca Trail, the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, and return flights from Lima - Cusco. The remainder of the group will return to Aguas Calientes and board the train for their returns to the Sacred Valley or Cusco. However, its also possible to buy poles in Cusco or to rent them from your tour provider. Don't overpack. Its sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins. This section of the Inca Trail hike provides a fantastic perspective of the gorgeous Peruvian countryside but is also very cold due to the high altitude. Thankfully, we both fall into the latter camp and we always tell people to embrace getting a little stinky and dirty for a few days. Lowest Elevation: Lightweight travel towel to shower with and a small (inflatable) travel pillow for your sleeping comfort. Located in the Andes mountain range, the trail passes through several types of Andean environments including cloud forest and alpine tundra. With high-altitude hikes, it's best to think of . In all my experiences traveling and adventuring, the hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail still stands as my most spectacular. There are no hotels on the Inca Trail and your only available accommodation comes in the form of a tent and a sleeping bag in the middle of nature. Once in Cusco, all your transport to the Trail and the return trip to Cusco from Machu Picchu will be arranged by your tour company and included in the overall tour price. As a result, advance booking is mandatory. Day 2 is the biggest elevation gain on your hike. This also included a guided tour around the site. Besides dealing with high elevation, your general fitness and previous trekking experience will also contribute to your level of enjoyment. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Save $$$ Save the Planet Save Your Stomach! It consists of three overlapping trails: . Most of the Machu Picchu hiking tours begin in Cusco, which, at 3,400 meters, is already considerably higher than Machu Picchu. He explained that local high-speed trains will be designed to have the ability to travel at speeds of 220-230 kilometers per hour. PLUS, you save money and the environment! Dead Woman's Pass is even steeper on the way down. A few of the porters and our guide took turns carrying our friend throughout the remaining two and a half days of the hike. The difference is the starting point; the High Inca Trail begins three days earlier, winding its way through the remote and picturesque Cordillera Vilcabamba. Day 1 is relatively easy as there isnt much elevation gain and your legs are fresh and you feel like you can take on anything. For more information on altitude sickness, the symptoms, and how to deal with them in Peru, read this post. Be prepared for all types of weather conditions. So much so, that permits generally sell out up to eight months in advance. Insect repellent (with Deet) for protection against mosquitoes and other blood-sucking critters once you get to Machu Picchu. The 2-day Inca Trail begins at the Chachabamba archaeological complex which is located at 6,725 ft (2,050 m), the lowest point of the hike. Well, the elevation of the Inca Trail is over 13,000 feet so if you have altitude problems make sure to think twice before committing. The Inca Trail elevation varies significantly and people often struggle with altitude sickness, especially if they have not spent much time in Cusco before trekking the trail. Day one eases you into the action. On the last day, you will wake up before dawn at an absurdly early hour (our wake up call was 3 A.M.) in order to reach the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu just in time for sunrise. Alternatively, this highly rated four-day Inca Trail tour has loads of excellent reviews, allows free cancellation), and is even cheaper than the above tour meaning its a good option for those on a tighter budget. and any personal medications. The highest point on the Inca Trail is Dead Woman's Pass. We also truly hope that most of your questions about the Inca Trail hike have now been answered and you are in the best position possible for your upcoming Peruvian adventure. Note that the Inca Trail is closed in February for everyone in order to allow it to replenish. There is no camping involved, as travelers spend the night in a hotel after hiking to Machu Picchu. Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek: Which Hike to Machu Picchu is Better Instead, view the Inca Trail as your challenge, your motivation, and your deadline to start walking more, to lose some weight, and to make some positive changes before you fly to Peru (and if you need some inspiration, read this womans story). Explorers will glimpse archaeological sites and a remarkable diversity of Andean landscapes, all building up to the final grand entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail trek begins in the Sacred Valley and navigates varied terrain. On your first day of hiking the Inca Trail, you will typically embark from the KM82 route. Only Inca Trail hikers can access the Gate at sunrise, and it is this crescendo, at one of the new seven wonders of the world which makes this hike a feature on so many South America bucket lists. We did the trek with G Adventures, a global company focused on sustainable small-group adventures (who have also been awarded Best Inca Trail Tour Operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco in Peru) - you can check out the specific tour we did by clicking here. The trail continues to ascend, passing a small lake named Quchapata (Cochapata)[6] in an area that is recognized as deer habitat. Weve covered all the essentials you definitely need to buy and pack for either season (plus some nice to haves) in this Inca Trail Packing List post, whilst more information on the camping + food on the trek is outlined in specific sections below. Rest easy once you get to the campsite because the next day is likely to be the most unforgettable experience of your hiking existence (it was for me). If youll be taking an Inca Trail tour in rainy season, a little more spontaneity is possible, unless you have very specific dates in mind where it makes sense to get your booking in sooner rather than later. The lowest point on the trail at Llactapata ruins is roughly 2250m (7,382ft). To find out what clothes and footwear are best, read our Inca Trail Packing post. Even before passing through the tunnel there are views down to the Willkanuta River, the first since leaving the river at Patallaqta. You would be greatly remiss if you do not visit Machu Picchu at some point in your life. Ive hiked all over the USA and other parts of the world but nothing has ever affected me in such a way as the Inca Trail did. Theres even a marathon!). Inca Trail - Classic Hike To Machu Picchu (Complete Guide) Bring extra batteries for personal electronics like cameras and cell phones. Be prepared for steep inclines and stone steps. Nate is avid hiker throughout South America and still considers the Inca Trail hike to be one of the most memorable experiences he has ever had. True Traveller and World Nomads are two respected travel insurers which we have used on South America trips who cover high altitude treks (just make double sure that youve selected the right option). The Inca Trail has an elevation range between 2,200m (7,218ft) and 4,200m (13,780ft) above sea level. The Classic Inca Trail is easily the most famous trek in South America. We recommend going with Cachi Life as they are doing really great work in Peru that goes well beyond the Inca Trail hike. Everything You Need To Know Before Hiking the Inca Trail, 13 Wonderful Things To Do in Drake Bay | The Wild Side of Costa Rica, this highly rated four-day Inca Trail tour, these excellent lightweight travel hiking poles in the UK, three-week overland trip in Africa with G Adventures, these excellent lightweight sleeping bags. However, as truly beautiful as the hike may be, the real reason for its popularity lies at the very end of this four day adventure; passing through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance. Rooted in Inca heritage, this centuries-old path gives hikers the chance to walk in the footsteps of pre-Columbian royalty. [1] As a result, the high season books out very quickly. These are consistently cheap (starting from 45 / $60 / 50 per person), reliable, and only take 90 minutes. Your trek must be organized through a licensed tour operator. The legendary hike culminates at the Puerta de Sol (Sun Gate) where you overlook the magnificent ruins below and the iconic Huayna Picchu mountain to the side. The first half of the hike to Machu Picchu includes steep inclines and many stone steps. However, reducing the plastic footprint and impact of travellers is something we are very passionate about, so its important to note that the best way to be guaranteed plenty safe-to-drink water on the Inca Trail (and on future hikes) is to invest in a Lifestraw bottle, which has an in-built filter to remove 99.9% of harmful bacteria. You will spend the night at Huayllabamba, the only inhabited town on the trek. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (also known as Camino Inca or Camino Inka) is a hiking trail in Peru that terminates at Machu Picchu. The ticket for the $12 shuttle bus (30 minutes) down to Aguas Calientes will be included in your tour price and the ticket provided on the day by your guide. One of the most popular things to do in South America - and one of the worlds most famous hikes - the Inca Trail is the sort of singular adventures for which we all travel. Classic Inca Trail Altitude Map distance | The ultimate travel guide Day Three: Early rise to hike the most photogenic section of the Trail. The highest point on the Inca Trail is Dead Womans Pass. Although the hike is only one day long, this doesnt mean it is easy. At the top, the pass is rocky, with little vegetation. For the past 5 years, I have had the goal of visiting each of the 7 Wonders of the world. Your body needs the time to adjust! You can spend those days sightseeing in and around Cusco as there are plenty of archaeological sites like Nazca. If youve never camped before, than that is all about to change! pp.233,268271,300. However, there are a few key things to know about how luggage and kit is transported on the hike before you even think about whether you really need that extra pair of pants. The altitude starts around 9,000 feet above sea level but the highest point on the Inca Trail is Dead Woman's Pass . Make sure to bring your own toilet paper and hand-sanitiser, and just hold your nose (and maybe close your eyes too) when you need to go. Inca Trail Distance: If you are not ready for the challenge of multi-day trekking, your mind might give up long before your body does. This was originally done informally by organizations such as South American Explorers,[2] but is now managed officially. As mentioned, the tour company will provide the tents and porters will carry the majority of the camping equipment. Some campsites have on-site restrooms and showers, however, these are not well maintained. right now). We went in July and the temperatures were great with a bit of rain on day 2. We have used similar bottles on travels in both Africa and South America and cant talk highly enough of them (our Water-to-Go allowed us to fill up from taps all over Peru, from two rivers on the Inca Trail, and even an ancient water fountain at Machu Picchu). Inca trail preparation: a complete guide [updated 2020] - Career Gappers Machu Picchu, Peru, Tips and Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid - Insider Check in to your hotel and later enjoy dinner with your hiking group. Its the hardest day of the trek, with an ascent of 1,200 meters and a challenging descent to the bottom campsite. After all, reaching Machu Picchu is the reason that many of you will be considering this hike in the first place! Permits for low season travel (NovemberMarch) should be secured at least three months in advance. Travelers who have pre-purchased Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits will continue on to their respective hikes after the tour. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. So youve decided to hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. A portable power bank is also useful. Throughout day 3 youll also see several mini Machu Picchu-like ruins spread throughout the trail. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. We recommend 2 nights or more if possible. You can either bring your own sleeping bag or rent one for an additional fee. This first day of the trail meanders up and down gradually, with an elevation increase of only 1,610 ft (400 m). The Inca Trail, How Long Is It? | Andean Trails