If youre fit enough to handle the constant incline, there is a good chance the high altitude will zap your energy and perhaps give you dizziness. Small, permanent settlements are located adjacent to the trail, and Wayllapampa has approximately 400 inhabitants (130 families) spread along this portion of the trail. clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, toiletries). In short, hiking poles are not essential for the Inca Trail; it is 100% possible to do it without them. All companies operating the Inca Trail must be registered and have a special operators license, which is renewed annually. If this is the case, you have plenty of options for hiking in the Andes: Camping equipment, daily meals, and boiled drinking water are provided by your trekking team. The second day ascends over Dead Woman's pass- the highest point on the Inca Trail at 4,200 metres. Day 2 is considerably more difficult due to the severe elevation gain and altitude of the Inca Trail. At 26 miles long, it's tempting for hikers to think that the Inca Trail is an easy hike. Bus | If youre travelling from Arequipa, then an overnight bus to Cusco is your best option. Once youve booked a tour and committed to the hike, there are some key milestones to hit before you get anywhere near South America. The worst part of hiking the Inca Trail is not the altitude, nor the steep ascents, but rather the toilet options available along the route. 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). [12] Permits were previously released in January, however, in 2017 this changed to October. When the Incans were conquered by the Spanish in the 1500s, they fled the jungle and Machu Picchu went hidden for hundreds of years. The overall distance of the Quarry Trail is about 26km (the Inca Trail is 43km) and the maximum altitude is 4,450m above sea level (the Inca Trail's highest point is Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215m). Your email address will not be published. Its the hardest day of the trek, with an ascent of 1,200 meters and a challenging descent to the bottom campsite. Tours should provide you with purified, safe-to-drink water at camp each night and morning; this in addition to drinks purchased in advance and along the way (and those endless cups of tea glugged at camp) should be sufficient to keep you well hydrated. The 2-day Inca Trail is particularly popular with families that enjoy hiking and are looking for a taste of adventure. As with other sites that were being degraded due to overuse, camping is no longer allowed. Porters can be hired to carry up to 18 lb (8 kg) or 33 lb (15 kg). You will spend the night at Huayllabamba, the only inhabited town on the trek. To make your experience hiking in Peru more enjoyable, we recommend hiring a personal porter to help carry these items. Thankfully, the Peruvians are a resourceful people and will go leaps and bounds to make a person in need is helped. Each morning and night you will also be provided a bowl of warm water with which to freshen up. Firstly, you are going to leave the bulk of your luggage securely in a luggage storage room back at the hotel in Cusco; dont leave valuables here though as thats just silly. They are experienced in supporting members of a group who may be struggling or slower than the rest, and ensuring that everyones experience is the best possible in the circumstances. It is recommended to spend a few days getting used to the elevation before you hike the Inca Trail. Its required to begin the Inca Trail and to visit Machu Picchu. Ley No 28296, "Inca Trail permits to be released four months early", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Inca_Trail_to_Machu_Picchu&oldid=1125666243, Jenkins, David "A Network Analysis of Inka Roads, Administrative Centers and Storage Facilities. The trail only descends from this point until arriving at Machu Picchu at 2,430 metres. Unless you hire a private porter, youre expected to carry both pads and sleeping bags along the trek. Located in the Andes mountain range, the trail passes through several types of Andean environments including cloud forest and alpine tundra. If the sky is clear, the views of Llulluchapampa Valley are phenomenal. 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. Up mountain passes and down into humid cloud forest valleys, the final destination is majestic Machu Picchu. After breakfast, we continue our hike up the highest point in the Inca Trail, reaching the mountain pass of Abra Warmihuausca (Dead Woman's Pass - 4200m/13776ft) after about 2 hours. Now, the important thing to note here is that your bog-standard, one-size-fits-all travel insurance will almost certainly not cover you getting unwell at significant altitude - youll need to buy an add-on which specially covers hiking at high altitude. 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. 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. The number of these views increases. Inca Trail elevation continually changes as you hike over spectacular passes and down into lush valleys. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be transferred to another individual. [9], The trail then descends approximately 1000metres including an irregular staircase of approximately 1500 steps, some of which were carved into solid granite. Tours to Machu Picchu normally arrange groups of eight to sixteen people, and you will hike with people from all around the world. What is the High Inca Trail? These ruins are at an altitude of 3750m (12,300ft). Its a damn good journey! We had to book the tour about 6 months in advance to reserve a spot. We hiked with G Adventures in early December, so we were ready for some rainy days. pp.233,268271,300. Im sure you hear this often, but to be honest, it really is nothing like being there in person and seeing it up close and personal. On the first two days of the Trail, there are also local people who have set up toilets for trekkers (charging S/. The Classic Inca Trail is just a small portion of the 45000km network of Inca . But before you do, there are a few important factors you need to consider, such as the best time to trek, weather conditions, and how far in advance to book. You can arrange a private tour, but this can be considerably more expensive with a smaller group. Tipping is not mandatory, and you are entitled to put in more, less, or nothing at all. Yes, the trekking team will provide drinking water every morning and at each meal. Consult your Travel Advisor if you require a guide who speaks a different language. If there is notable rainfall, then hiking conditions become slippier and more difficult. 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. With G Adventures, two chefs are included as part of the support staff, and the unanimous opinion of our group was that those two performed absolute miracles. 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. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. 3. 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. 6.8 miles (11 km). 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. Reaching the crest of this ridge reveals the grandeur of the ruins of Machu Picchu, which lie below. It is customary on the last night of the trek to tip the trekking team (guides, porters, chef) as a thank you for their terrific service and support. Hiking poles must have rubber tips on the ends. If you are one of the quicker ones in a group, dont ruin another persons experience by castigating them for taking longer - everyone has their own challenges,circumstances, and reasons for being on the Trail, and a friendship and positive experience is more likely to blossom out of supporting someone through their struggle. More information. Take it slow and steady on Day 2 of the hike, as you summit the highest point of the Inca Trail, known as Warmiwanusca in Quechua. The best time of year to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season (MaySeptember). The hike is beautiful and difficult both physically and mentally. If you plan on renting the sleeping bag and air-mattress, then just bear in mind that this will take up over 50% of your 6kgs allowance and also takes up most of the room available inside the duffel bag. You will pass several unforgettable Incan sites like two Incan tunnels that are carved right out of the mountainside. The intricate detail that the Incans put into each and every stone structure is mesmerizing. It promotes sustainable and responsible travel for the curious modern day explorer. Inca Trail weather during the shoulder months is variable and it is common to experience all four seasons in one day. Cusco, in the south-east of Peru, thankfully doubles up as one of the countrys most popular destinations due to its history and position as an access point to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, so every Peru itinerary is guaranteed to include at least a few nights here. G Adventures minimum is 12 years old) . We had always thought that hiking poles were only for old people and Austrians. Because of this rule, permits can only be obtained through a government registered tour operator. Travel is full of variables and there is always a risk, however small, that something might go wrong before or during your trip. This is the second highest pass on the Inca Trail known as the Runquraqay Pass. For high season travel (AprilOctober) and December holidays, permits can sell out up to six months before travel. To protect this historic trail, only 500 people are permitted to hike on it each day. 98 steps lead to this site, which is positioned on a cliff that affords splendid views of the Aobamba Valley. Ask your Travel Advisor for more details. By staying there before your walk, you will give your body time to acclimate to the altitude of the . The road on one of the highest altitude routes of the Inca Trail. The second day is the hardest, starting at 10,000 feet (3,000 m) and ascending to Dead Woman's Pass. A common misconception about the Inca Trail is that it will allow you to be amongst the first people into Machu Picchu - this simply isnt true as its much easier to get through its gates just after opening if you stay in Aguas Calientes the night before and hike or take the bus up. Please consult your Travel Advisor with specific questions regarding trekking equipment and rental options during your Inca Trail trekking experience. Its a somewhat strenuous 4 days so its important to consider what you are getting yourself into before leaving for the trip. It was cool enough in the evening to get a good nights sleep without freezing. Inca Trail, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu, Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu, Cusco, 2-day Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu, Are you interested in adding a meal at one of the, We sell virtually all services available in Peru, Galapagos, Argentina, Chile, Brazil and Patagonia, Located between 7,5003,300 ft (1,0002,300 m) is the. A long Inca tunnel and a viewpoint overlooking two valleys: the Urubamba and Aobamba (a broken word), are passed. The 4-Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the magnificent hikes I have ever done. Insect repellent (with Deet) for protection against mosquitoes and other blood-sucking critters once you get to Machu Picchu. You can get a 15% discount on the Water-to-Go if you use this code at the checkout (ADR15), and read this post to find out about more ways about how to use less plastic when you travel. When to book: a minimum of 6 months in advance. Alright, lets get to the details. Savour the route, rather than trying to set a record pace (which youll never do by the way - its currently 3 hours 23 minutes by a porter. If youre hiking in the dry (high) season, then you should be making a reservation sooner rather than later (i.e. The trail is steep and challenging in places, but the views of the . If hotels and tour companies offered lockers in Cusco which travellers could secure with their own padlock, then this would have allowed us to leave various cards, cash, and tech with confidence (and insurance coverage) in the city rather than carrying it all in our backpack on the trail (Andrew actually lugged 18 kgs on his back for the entirety of the trail because of this, so views himself as an honorary porter!). Immediately after the pass, we descend into the Pacaymayo valley (3600m/11808ft), from which we then start to climb to the second pass, the Abra Runkurakay . TIP: Tell us the destinations you have in mind. The highest point on the Inca Trail route is the so-called 'pass of the dead woman' or Warmihuauska in Quechua, located at 4,200 meters above sea level. 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). 2: The best tour companies each come with a main guide and an assistant guide - one will lead at the front of your group whilst another will stay at the back. We dont know if all tours will offer the same level of food as G Adventures did, but even if its half as good youll be very happy. See below for our packing recommendations. New operators are added to the list each year so, as you can imagine, quality, experience, and equipment offered will vary quite a lot. To help you prepare to go on one of the best hikes in the world, we have summarized everything you need to know with a day-by-day itinerary, picking a tour operator, and what to bring with you. Dress in layers and adjust as necessary during the day. The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your tour, but there are a few costs along the way for which youll need to bring cash: Toilet entry fees (usually 1 sol, 2 soles at Machu Picchu). When to book: 3 months in advance. Thankfully, the weather gods were rooting for us, and we only had one bad rain shower and a single morning of dense mist to contend with - as our guide told us, this wont always be the case for those hiking the Inca Trail in rainy season. Comfortable hiking boots or walking shoes are a must. Bring a daypack to carry your overnight and personal belongings, water, and provided boxed lunch. Your duffel bag will be collected and weighed each morning to ensure its not over the weight limit, and will be waiting for you alongside an erected tent at each campsite. Personally, we wouldnt recommend anyone under the age of 14 to do the trek due to group dynamics. Weve tested the Geopressrigorouslyfrom the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Cuba, and the results are in: it WORKS. Starting at 2,600 metres, the trail ascends to 3,300 metres on the first day. Day one eases you into the action. Cons | Hiking and camping in the rain for four days is never fun, so you are increasing the chances of that. The Inca Trail starting point is at an elevation of 2,600m (8,500ft). After the tunnel the town of Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes) can be seen, and trains running along the river can be heard. Nights are warmer compared to the dry season. Keep that in mind as you will need good long-range planning to make sure your spot is reserved. Alternatively, the 2-day Inca Trail is recommended for travelers who cannot or do not wish to devote four days of trekking to their trip, but would still like to experience the Inca Trail. The difference is the starting point; the High Inca Trail begins three days earlier, winding its way through the remote and picturesque Cordillera Vilcabamba. This highest point of the trek at 4,215 m (3,828 ft) with stunning views at the summit. Peru has two seasons - dry and wet - and it is possible to do the Inca Trail in either. After the ruins, the trail continues its ascent to the top of the pass at 3975m (13,035ft). Being in decent shape, acclimatising, carrying out a few practice hikes at home, keeping yourself hydrated, wearing in your hiking boots, and taking out the correct travel insurance are essential to staying safe and healthy on this hike; if youve made it this far down in our Inca Trail Guide and taken our advice on board, then you should have very few issues once you hit the Trail. The third and fourth day of the Inca Trail altitude change is a relative descent to Machu Picchu. The porters carry all the tents along the Trail, but you will be responsible for including your sleeping bag and mat in the 6kg duffel bag allowance. With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. Hiking the Inca Trail is an experience which should inspire excitement, invoke a little bit of fear, stoke jealousy amongst your friends, and stir a sense of wander in your soul. The biggest surprise for us both on the Trail was just how incredible the food provided was every single day. The remainder of the group will return to Aguas Calientes and board the train for their returns to the Sacred Valley or Cusco. We recommend training for the physical challenge, as well as consulting with your physician prior to travel. At the small village Wayllapampa ("grassy plain", Wayllabamba) the trail intersects with the "Mollepata Trail" at 3,000 metres (9,800ft).[3]. Please note that some links on our blog are affiliate links. A maximum of 500 people are allowed on the trail each day, of which only 200 are trekkers, the rest being guides and porters. The site was heavily restored in the late 1990s.[3]. If youve never camped before, than that is all about to change! 30 miles (49 km), Highest Elevation: The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be hiked all year round, except for February when the trail is closed for maintenance. The Inca Trail undulates between a low point of 2,250m/8,366ft and its highest point of 4,200m/13,780ft, with many peaks and troughs along the way. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. If you are injury-prone or have had issues in the past think twice before committing to the full hike. There is no minimum or maximum age limit for hikers on the Inca Trail, but tour companies will operate according to their own guidelines and policies (i.e. Once used as a checkpoint for those entering and exiting the holy city, this viewpoint affords hikers unrivaled views of the citadel far below. You'll still need to at least carry a daypack with your water bottle, rain jacket, etc. The most visitors the park allows is 500 a day and that includes guides and porters which make up over half that number. Hiring a personal porter to carry your belongings and sleeping bag will make your trekking experience more enjoyable. Bring cash with you for tipping. A: The Inca Trail reaches an altitude of 2,700 meters (9300 feet) at its highest point. A typical dinner included fresh hot soup, a hearty main course, and then something sweet to round it off - all washed down at the end with cups of tea. From what I have seen, the price is around $500-$700 USD per person. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is arguably the most famous trail in all of South America. If you are a little older in years and need some inspiration, then Alan Goldin is the oldest recorded hiker of the Trail at the age of 84, whilst three of our local porters were 62! Even so, you should ascend slowly and drink lots of water. April & October We recommend going with Cachi Life as they are doing really great work in Peru that goes well beyond the Inca Trail hike. Pros | A less popular time to hike, so the number of people youre sharing the Trail with is notably reduced, as are the crowds at Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail hike marked our second time visiting Machu Picchu, and arriving via the Sun Gate with sweaty brows and tired feet rather than taking the morning bus from Aguas Caliente with thousands of others clearly underlined to us that it is the best way to arrive at one of the worlds most iconic attractions. The Inca Trails length is 26 miles (42 kilometers) of pure Peruvian power that connects several Incan archaeological sites: Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyuptamarca, Wiaywayna, and of course none other than the magnificent Machu Picchu ruins! If it wasnt for an adventurous Yale scholar in 1913, Hiram Bingham, we might not have known of the existence of this modern-day gem. For more information on altitude sickness, the symptoms, and how to deal with them in Peru, read this post. The Inca Trail is a 4 day hike at a very high altitude in the Andes Mountains. The entire 4-day Inca trail hike is 26 miles (42 km). The Inca Trail porters are the unsung heroes of every experience, and they will carry up to 25 kgs of food and supplies on their backs. Pros | The chance of rain, as the name would suggest, is significantly reduced and you can expect hot, dry mornings and afternoons. Only 500 Inca Trail permits are available per day, Booking Inca Trail tickets in advance is a must, Inca Trail is closed for the month of February. If the skies are clear, you will enjoy an outstanding view of the Machu Picchu ruins from above. The Grayl Geopress is the markets leading filtered water bottle protecting your tum from all the waterborne nasties. Just remember that the 2 soles youll pay to enter the modern squeaky clean toilets at the Machu Picchu site will be money very very well spent. May to September: dry season with good trail conditions. The Inca Trail is one of the most famous hikes in the world. Its a nice starter to a much more difficult day ahead. Everything is set for you to walk the Inca Trail. Direccion Regional de Cultura Cuzco. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at the Sun Gate. Temperatures at night are also less chilly. A daypack to carry water, a boxed lunch provided by your hiking guide, camera, personal items for your overnight in Aguas Calientes, etc. The highest point of the trail is Dead Women's Pass at just over 4200m. The 4-day Inca Trail is 30 miles (49 km) in length. Highest point (Warmiwanusca Pass /Dead Womans Pass). All rights reserved. Be sure to exercise in the weeks leading up to your trip. The distances involved in hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Pichu are not that great. He profiles some of his. From Aguas Calientes to the entrance area to the citadel, you can take a 15-minute bus ride, or you can walk up the hill (approximately 45 minutes). You are expected to bring and carry your own snacks, although our tour did provide us each with a snack bag on Day One of the trail (we finished ours on the last day, others finished it by Day Two).
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