Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
The Inca trail is approx 26 miles (42 Kilometers) long and it is considered a moderate trek. If you are average fit which means you can hike for at least 6 hours a day, definitely you will enjoy it! During this four day trek, the highest point reaches approx 13,700 feet (The dead woman pass) but your mentality counts too. It is recommended to take some days off in Cusco or Sacred valley area before starting the trek to avoid altitude sickness. A wooden hiking stick will be helpful to ease the pressure on your knees during the trek and the coca leaves will help you breathe better!
Here you will find some important information before arriving in Peru.
If you have any other questions we are only an e-mail away!
Documents you require:
US and European community citizens just need to bring a valid Passport if you have a different nationality please e-mail us to help. No vaccinations are required.
Health:
The best medicine is to begin the trip in the best health possible. Get in shape, especially legs, cardiovascular, and lungs. Our treks go to areas over 14,000 feet so please contact your physician to be sure you are able to do the trek. If you have any heart or lung disease it is recommended to avoid traveling to high altitudes.
Medicines to bring:
Bring any special medications you require., it may be difficult to find it in the highlands.
Altitude Sickness:
We advise you to rest upon arrival in Cusco, eat lightly the first two days and drink plenty of bottled water. Spending at least 2 days in Cusco or the sacred valley area prior the trek will help, avoid drinking alcohol and smoking. Coca leaves help too. The altitudes experienced in the Andes may have an adverse effect on you if you are not used to such heights. On reaching heights above 4000 feet, heart pounding and shortness of breath are a normal response to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors symptoms usually develop during the first 24 hours at altitude. To prevent Soroche, on arrival don't over exert yourself. Be sure to rest. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy food. Drinking mate de coca (an infusion of coca leaves) will help. If symptoms become more severe and prolonged it is best to quickly seek medical attention and make arrangements to descend to a lower altitude. Diamox (acetazolamide) is a good medication for altitude sickness.
Dress in Layers:
Temperatures change rapidly and dramatically at high altitudes. You will want layers of clothing in your daypacks, "just in case". Our tour sites range from 6000-14,000 ft. In high altitude the sun is very intense but it may be very cold at night
What to pack:
Original valid Passport
Day backpack to carry your camera, water bottle and clothing
Sleeping bag with stuff sack (10°-20°F)
Water bottle (Capacity 32 oz/1 Liter)
Mid weight wool sweater
Winter Hat and Gloves
Fleece pants
Zip-off hiking pants
Hiking shorts
Short and Long-sleeve shirts.
Underwear
Hiking socks
Swimsuit
Personal Towel
Sun hat
Rain jacket
Athletic, waterproof and broken-in hiking shoes
Sandals
Flashlight
Pocket knife
Watch with alarm
Sunglasses
Sun block and lip balm
First-aid kit with Personal Medication
Toilet Paper
Potable aqua water treatment tablets
Hand sanitizer gel
Insect repellent
Camera, film and spare batteries
Altimeter
Earplugs
Energy snacks
Extra Money in small denominations (tips)
Cusco Weather
The Inca Trail is open from March to Jan (Feb is closed), and the best time to trek is during dry season (April to October), however it may rain at any time of the year. June, July and August are the busiest month, and just to let you know we provide you 4 season tents in case of much rain.
Average Conditions
|
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
| Max F° |
70 |
70 |
70 |
69 |
69 |
69 |
69 |
68 |
70 |
70 |
71 |
70 |
| Min F° |
44 |
44 |
42 |
39 |
35 |
32 |
30 |
30 |
38 |
40 |
42 |
44 |
Money:
There are money changing booths almost everywhere in every major Peruvian city. The cash dollars you bring should be crisp, clean and new-no tears. It is a good idea not to use bills in excess of $10-$20.00 U.S., as you might find it difficult for the merchant to change anything larger.
Food and water:
Peruvian Food, is one of the best in the world, however you have to eat at the right place. Avoid eating from street vendors. Only drink bottled water- even for things such as brushing your teeth. Avoid fruits or vegetables that have not been peeled. Food depends on the geography of the country, its climate and the customs of their people. Have your water bottle filled up before starting the trek and then during the trek you will find streams where you can fill up your water bottle using the water treatment tablets. Boiled water is available during meal times.
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