Quick Tips For Hiking The Inca Trail

The most famous hike in South America is the pinnacle of a Machu Picchu Tour. This is a life changing experience that will never be forgotten, especially when you come to see the view of the mysterious city of Machu Picchu from the peak of a mountain.  This hard four day trek will test and reward you with its steep climbs, high altitudes and magnificent views. Here are some tips for conquering the Inca Trail.

Book early

It is essential to book your trip on the Inca Trail well in advance, especially since this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South America. There is also a limit on the number of people that are allowed to hike the trail and see Machu Picchu each year.

Best time

Planning your trip on the Inca Trail during the best time of the year is crucial to give you the best chance of getting the best weather possible. The trail is closed during February each year in order to repair the trail, especially with so many tourists making the trek each year. The dry season runs from May to September, which also coincides with the peak tourist season. To minimise the amount of other tourists you will see it may be a good idea to go at the start or end of the tourist season, whilst still experiencing good weather.

Shop around

When you book a tour it is important to see what is included, especially since porters may or may not be included in the price of the tour. It is important to understand what you will be getting with your package. Comparing two tours that both look good may lead you to a different conclusion on closer inspection!

Engage with your porters

Porters are locals and engaging with them can really be a great way to enrich your trip, especially because they can share a wealth of knowledge and stories about the area. They shouldn’t be treated as people that just help you to carry your baggage. Don’t forget to give them a nice tip at the end, because they really will be your best friend on the trail.

Be prepared

Bringing a good pair of shoes with good grip is a must and you should also bring some waterproof clothing to deal with the fog and dampness that occurs in the mountains.

High altitude

Getting altitude sickness is not a fun experience at all, so it is important to acclimatise yourself to the altitude when you reach Cusco. Do not expect to arrive in the Andes and start hiking the next day. Take some time to experience some other Inca sites in the area and to see Cusco, or you can simply relax. This is the perfect preparation for your four day trek.