One of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, Machu Picchu is also a priceless relic of the Inca Empire. Many people attempt to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site every day despite its remote mountaintop location.
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity despite its difficulties. The path passes through a variety of Peru's most beautiful landscapes, from verdant rainforests to alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains. In the end, visitors make their way to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most famous archeological sites and a replica of the lost Inca metropolis.
The Inca Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those who are up to the task to discover many things to know about Machu Picchu. It's important to be prepared before embarking on this epic hike.
10 The Highest Point On The Inca Trail
It was not just the distance that made the Inca routes challenging, but also the extreme altitude that may be encountered at various points.
Abra Warmihuausca, at 4,224 meters, is the trail's highest point (13,860 ft).
The discomfort of this magnitude is associated with conditions including back pain and constipation. Possible side effects also include fatigue, weakness, and a decrease in appetite.
Spending a few days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the greatest approach to combat altitude sickness. Coca tea (a translation made of coca paper) is one of the most efficient methods, used by the Incas several centuries ago.
The guide has dealt with many cases of these illnesses and understands how to treat their guests throughout the Inca passage.
9 Duration Of An Inca Trail Hike
It takes four days and three nights of hiking the Inca Trail (approximately 18 to 24 hours). Travelers visiting Machu Picchu in Peru's Amazon jungle will follow a path via the Andes Mountains.
Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiaywayna are just a few of the ancient cities they will see along the way.
From Intipunku, Machu Picchu's entrance lies at the end of the road (Puerta del Sol). In Inca times, this was the primary entrance. All of the scenery is breathtaking.
After finishing the Inca Trail, most people take a train back to Cusco. Some visitors choose to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes to take advantage of the town's famous hot springs before making the journey back to Cusco.
8 Get Up Early And Go To Machu Picchu
As a result of the newly implemented rules, tourists may now only enter Machu Picchu between the hours of 6:00 am and 12:00 pm or between 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm, depending on the time slot they select when they purchase their ticket.
Aim to adhere to the time stated on the ticket; while it's unlikely that visitors will be kicked out at a set time, or denied entry, it's best to follow the rules as closely as possible for the best experience.
7 Obtain Tickets In Advance
Do not even think of buying tickets at the door on the day of the event. It is highly recommended that visitors book their tours at least six months in advance, and during peak season (December through April), the Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu can sell out nearly a year in advance.
Low-season visitors may be able to purchase tickets weeks or even days in advance, but it's still advisable to prepare early to guarantee entry on the day of choice and prevent disappointment.
Early reservations are recommended for hikes to popular destinations like Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, both of which have restricted visitor capacity.
6 Tour Costs For The Inca Trail
Different tour operators charge different amounts for their Inca trek packages. This four-day trip is expected to cost around $600 per participant on average.
Students can save $20 or $30 at most tour operators with their ISIC cards. Those under the age of 18 who can prove their age with a passport will also have their fees reduced.
After seeing Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail, visitors take a train back to Ollantaytambo from Aguas Calientes.
To get to Cusco, travelers board a minivan. Each tour operator launches its own railroad. The client is expected to make a request and cover any additional costs associated with a higher quality of service.
5 Time Of Year To Hike The Inca Trail
It rains from November to March in Cusco, as it does throughout the rest of southern Peru, and then it's dry from April until October (from April to October). The greatest time to do Inca trails is in summer.
The weather at this time is hot and humid, with occasional showers. Bring a hat, sunscreen, mosquito netting, sunglasses, comfortable midday clothing, and warm clothes to hike the Inca Trail in the summer.
Bring raincoats, jackets, suitable shoes, and shorts for hiking the Inca routes in the wetter months.
4 There Is A Shorter Version Of The Four-Day Trip
There is a version of the Inca trail that is shorter and only takes two days to complete. Those without sufficient time to spend four days in the park, which would often include overnights in a more desirable area, might benefit greatly from this alternative.
The Salkantay Trek and the Lares Trek are only two of the many ways to get to Machu Picchu. The only route that leads straight to the Inca City of Intipunku is the Inca Trail (Puerta del Sol).
3 Don't Forget These Five Items, But Leave The Big Backpack At Home
It’s best to pack hiking essentials that every adventurer should always have. Don't forget the sunscreen and insect spray — or shampoo, for those who prefer to attempt the tried-and-true local way of warding off mosquitoes.
It's best to dress for the weather, which may range from very cold in the morning to quite hot in the middle of the day and very wet at any moment, so bring along a raincoat, a pair of waterproof shoes, and a few layers.
A modest or regular-sized backpack is fine, but they usually crack down on those that are too big. This is an essential one on the list of Machu Picchu hiking tips.
2 The Inca Trail's Reliability For Safety
Guides typically receive extensive training to ensure that they are effective in the event of an emergency, and they generally carry first aid kits, too.
However, before going on this hike, visitors should ensure they are in good health. People with some conditions may need to visit their doctor to ensure they are healthy enough to handle the rigorous trail.
No matter their fitness level, no traveler should venture forth in pursuit of a route without proper guidance.
1 Yes, Families With Kids Are Allowed On The Inca Trail
Technically, people of all ages can hike the Inca Trail. However, tour guide operators can set their own limits or make recommendations to hikers.
A typical recommendation is that kids under 12 shouldn't attempt the hike, unless they are already very experienced hikers. For parents with young children, who they plan to carry in a pack or carrier, altitude sickness is a significant concern.
Though it's possible to hike with a baby or toddler, most experienced hikers advise against it.