The good news is that it's a lot shorter than you may expect at only 40 kms (25 miles). A second Inca tunnel is along this section of trail.[10]. There is a chance of rain even in the dry season, so its better to be prepared. We recommend 2 nights or more if possible. 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). Even so, you should ascend slowly and drink lots of water. Ask your Travel Advisor about adding a porter that can carry up to 18 lb (8 kg) or 33 lb (15 kg). Inca Trail permits are usually available, except for holiday weeks, such as the end of December. How long does it take to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Ollantaytambo, and your first opportunity will be outside Machu Picchu or in Aguas Calientes. I made sure to mentally prepare our small team of six for the adventure and kept up a weekly progress report of how everyone was training. Share stories over dinner, and if the weather permits, partake in Andean stargazing before retiring to your tent. So, whatever you do, dont underestimate how much cash you will need - wed say at least 300 soles per person for the Trail-specific section. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. To have a better understanding of the varying levels of the Inca Trail elevation during pivotal sections of the route, see the chart below: Hopefully, the chart above gives you a better idea of why its important for you to train as much as possible before your trek. This highest point of the trek at 4,215 m (3,828 ft) with stunning views at the summit. On our last night, we even got a buffet! After our own hike, we wanted to share our hard-earned insights, advice, and tips to help you plan and prepare for your own successful Trail experience - all neatly whittled down into this comprehensive guide. All companies operating the Inca Trail must be registered and have a special operators license, which is renewed annually. The hike is beautiful and difficult both physically and mentally. Highest point (Warmiwanusca Pass /Dead Womans Pass). April & October Difficulty | Youre almost at the end and Machu Picchu, you should be hopping, skipping, and jumping all the way there! The ULTIMATE Guide to the Inca Trail Hike (DO IT in 2023) Its a damn good journey! Group porters carry tents, cooking equipment, portable restrooms, and other communal items. The Inca Trail traverses a variety of climates: temperate highlands outside of the Sacred Valley; cold, arid puna at the highest elevations; and warm, humid, cloud forest valleys close to Machu Picchu. Please also be aware that permits are only issued with a tourists name and passport number and, once booked, they are non-changeable and non-transferable. On challenging sections, you can set your own pace and take as many or as few breaks as you need. What we found the hardest was the sleeping at the altitude than hiking during the day. Highest Point on Inca Trail: Peru Day Seven - Tori Pines Travels We went in July and the temperatures were great with a bit of rain on day 2. 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. A small spur of the trail leads directly to Wiay Wayna, while the main route continues to Intipata. Classic Inca Trail Altitude Map distance | The ultimate travel guide Inca trail 4D/3N - Review of SAM Travel Peru, Cusco, Peru - Tripadvisor In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travellers in South America. Remember the part where youre trekking through mountains at 13,000 feet? Below are some suggestions on how much to tip the trekking team. 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. The highest point you will reach on the Salkantay Trek is 4650 meters above sea level, while the highest point on the Inca Trail lies at 4215 meters. There are no ATMs along the way. On the first two days of the Trail, there are also local people who have set up toilets for trekkers (charging S/. Visitors to Machu Picchu must purchase . Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. 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. . 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. From the top of the Runquraqay pass, it is a short descent of 300m (980ft) to the Phuyupatamarca ruins at 3650m (11,975 ft) above sea level. The outline of the mountains at one point resembles a woman lying on her back. Preparing for the Inca Trail isnt just a case of throwing some unworn hiking boots in your backpack and hoping for the best, but rather doing the necessary to ensure you have a successful and unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian mountains for all the right reasons! 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. You can see full details on whats included in G Adventures Inca Trail Tour here. Despite your best efforts (as well as the efforts of your CEO, porters etc), things can and do go wrong; if you get sick whilst hiking and are unable to make your own way back, without travel insurance, your evacuation will get expensive pretty quickly. Only government-authorized trekking companies can offer Inca Trail tours and your trekking team is trained in the case of emergency. 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. Its required to begin the Inca Trail and to visit Machu Picchu. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Its is certainly possible to find one but your options on tour companies and dates will be severely limited. This is approximately 1000m (3281ft) down more than 1200 stone steps. Headlamp (with extra batteries) or small flashlight to use at night while camping. If you do decide to go to Peru for the hike or just to see Machu Picchu, I recommend you brush up on some basic Spanish travel phrases. Ready? Take a break to catch your breath and enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba River below the sites green terraces. Your trek must be organized through a licensed tour operator. . Yes, the trekking team will provide drinking water every morning and at each meal. On the first day, you will also pass the lowest elevation on the Inca Trail known as the Llactapata/Patallacta Ruins at an elevation of 2,250m (7,382 ft). Our own Inca Trail group were all roughly the same age and fitness, which meant that our pace was consistent and we all arrived to rest-stops and campsites at roughly the same time. The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). Throughout day 3 youll also see several mini Machu Picchu-like ruins spread throughout the trail. Day Four: Very early rise (3 a.m.) to reach the entry check-point and hike 1-2 hours to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. 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. Demand for Inca Trail permits is high, especially during the dry season. The hike reaches its highest point at the Wiay Wayna ruins, which are located at 8,694 ft (2,650 m). 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 meals are quite exquisite considering that all of the ingredients and cooking supplies are carried from the Sacred Valley. This is the most dangerous point for altitude sickness, though . At 4,215m above sea level, it's the highest point of the Inca Trail.Subscribe for more htt. However, after asking our followers on Twitter, we were assured that 1. they are really bloody useful and 2. not just for old people and Austrians. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for tipping and lunch in Aguas Calientes. Weve tested the Geopressrigorouslyfrom the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Cuba, and the results are in: it WORKS. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking. Because of its popularity, the Peruvian Government instituted several controls to reduce human impact upon the trail and within the ancient city. During the trek, days are planned so that you have plenty of time to get from one point to the next. New operators are added to the list each year so, as you can imagine, quality, experience, and equipment offered will vary quite a lot. After breakfast, you will begin the ascent to Dead Womans Pass (13,828 ft (4,215 m), the highest point of the entire trek. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be transferred to another individual. If there is notable rainfall, then hiking conditions become slippier and more difficult. I really have no idea how they made such incredible meals when they were literally in the middle of the jungle. Private porters can be hired to carry either 18 lbs (8 kg) or 33 lbs (15 kg) of your personal belongings. The trail is about 26 miles (42 kilometers) long and takes four to five days to complete. Nope, and this is one of the best things about it. Both True Traveller and and World Nomads are respected insurers who offer this coverage. As Brits, we fully appreciate that this can result in a bit of uncertainty and awkwardness for those of us who havent been raised in a tipping culture (just pay more in wages, no? For your main and assistant guide, 25 - 50 soles for the former and 10 - 25 soles for the latter is advised per hiker. This pass has the highest elevation on the Inca Trail at 4,215m (13,829ft). Porters are instead responsible for carrying the tents, cooking supplies, food and additional camping equipment necessary along the trail. 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 trail is steep and challenging in places, but the views of the . [9], The trail then descends approximately 1000metres including an irregular staircase of approximately 1500 steps, some of which were carved into solid granite. TIP: Tell us the destinations you have in mind. Lightweight travel towel to shower with and a small (inflatable) travel pillow for your sleeping comfort. I wouldnt be surprised if we were the last group to make it into the historic site. The less you have to carry, the more enjoyable the experience. 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. this post on the essential things to look for before buying. It stands at 4,215 m. It's easy to get the impression that the name comes from some tragic story of someone that didn't quite make it to where they were going.. 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. Buy a Geopress: its the last water bottle youll ever buy. The trek allows hikers to witness the diverse microclimates of the Andes, from grassy plains and dramatic peaks to lush cloud forest. This is one of Perus highest major cities with an altitude of 3400m (11,152ft). See below for tipping recommendations. Direccion Regional de Cultura Cuzco. Be prepared for steep inclines and stone steps. The two longer routes require an ascent to beyond 4,200 metres (13,800ft) above sea level, which can result in altitude sickness. Overview. The first half of the hike to Machu Picchu includes steep inclines and many stone steps. All of the year's permits are released in October and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Cusco stands at 3,200 metres and is already significantly higher than Machu Picchu itself, though many sections of the Inca Trail are much higher. The most notable is a quota system, introduced in 2001, whereby only a set number of people (including hikers, porters, and guides) would be allowed to hike along the Inca Trail each day. At this point, the trail reaches 13,828 ft (4,215 m) in elevation.This pass is so named, as from below it is said to resemble a womans supine body. At the beginning of the hike the morning mountain air is likely to be cool, however you will warm up as you continue your journey to Machu Picchu. Be prepared to get soaked and tread cautiously when the trail gets slippery. Quarry Trail FAQ: The 'other' route to Machu Picchu 30 miles (49 km), Highest Elevation: 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 pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, toiletries). Hiring a personal porter to carry your belongings and sleeping bag will make your trekking experience more enjoyable. Get used to walking long distances before embarking. Four days of trekking through a variety of landscapes is a great way of getting to know this part of Peru. 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. The trail is closed in February for annual maintenance, conservation, and clean-up. We had to book the tour about 6 months in advance to reserve a spot. 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!). Both the 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail treks have distinct advantages and disadvantages. At the top, the pass is rocky, with little vegetation. Note that its often necessary to pay a deposit in advance to secure your Inca Trail permit, so if you go with a new, non-established, or cheaper provider, make sure you have done enough research into them before paying anything. By using these, you are directly supporting Along Dusty Roads to remain an independent travel blog, and to create free guides to help you travel more, travel better. There are three important things to note here: 1: The Inca Trail is not about finishing each day as quickly as possible; we felt that our group could have lingered a little more on sections of the hike and slowed our pace. Altitude sickness on the Inca Trail is rarely severe. It is closed in February for maintenance. A: The Inca Trail reaches an altitude of 2,700 meters (9300 feet) at its highest point. 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. Vegetation is much less abundant but the trail is drier and easier to hike. 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. You should be able to walk for at least 23 hours at a time on varied terrain. We have previously taken a three-week overland trip in Africa with G Adventures, where we were responsible for setting up and taking down our tent each day (not so fun in the rain or after a long day). The trail reaches 13,828 ft (4,215 m) on Day 2 and 12,500 feet (3,900 m) on Day 3. These are also the coldest months of the year so make sure to pack accordingly. 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. The Classic Inca Trail is just a small portion of the 45000km network of Inca . Temperatures really drop at higher elevation when the sun sets. The elevation of the Inca Trail varies, with the highest point rising to 13,828 feet (4200 m) above sea level. 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. This will include a private minibus to Ollantaytambo and km.82 (the Inca Trail start point) and either a train or minibus back to Cusco. Ask your Travel Advisor for more details. The road on one of the highest altitude routes of the Inca Trail. It was cool enough in the evening to get a good nights sleep without freezing. Dress in layers and adjust as necessary during the day. Some campsites have on-site restrooms and showers, however, these are not well maintained. Their shorter tour is around 710 per person, and our recommended cheaper alternative is around 600 - 650 depending upon whether it has a an offer running (which it often does). It is important to carefully review potential travel insurance policies to make sure that the Inca Trail portion will be covered. It consists of three overlapping trails: Mollepata, Classic, and One Day. 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. This may not sound like a lot, but it really is when you think about the fact that everyone follows the same narrow trails to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail follows a route through Perus Andean mountains. Yes, the Inca Trail is safe. At Wayllapampa the trail to Machu Picchu turns west and begins ascending along a tributary of the Cusichaka. You do not need to be a vastly experienced hiker, but acquiring a good level of physical fitness prior to arriving in Peru will make everything easier and more enjoyable. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. As your elevation increases, take note of how the ecosystems change. Its sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins. The Classic Inca Trail is easily the most famous trek in South America. Remember to pack smart and pack light for the Inca Trail - find out exactly what you need to bring and leave behind in our Inca Trail Packing List. These local porters, from fresh-faced 18 year olds to gnarled mountain men, are the unsung heroes of every Inca Trail experience and they will each carry up to 25 kgs on their backs for the group (yep, and you were worried about how hard the Trail would be for you!). Its a somewhat strenuous 4 days so its important to consider what you are getting yourself into before leaving for the trip. The intricate detail that the Incans put into each and every stone structure is mesmerizing. It wasnt all fun and games. 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. 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. The Inca Trail's length is 26 miles (42 kilometers) of pure Peruvian power that connects several Incan archaeological sites: Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyuptamarca, Wiaywayna, and of . As the trail ascends toward Warmi Wausqa, or "Dead Woman's Pass", which resembles a supine woman, it passes through differing habitats, one of which is a cloud forest containing Polylepis trees. The Inca Trail starting point is at an elevation of 2,600m (8,500ft). Im here to give you the lowdown on the good and the bad and how to make sure your next trip to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail is a success. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail trek begins in the Sacred Valley and navigates varied terrain. Thats an excellent jumping-off point for creating your Inca Trail packing list. 2023 Machu Picchu Trek | A Mountain IQ Guide. Each porter should be tipped around 30-40 soles (about $10-$15) for the entire group. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most sought after trek in Peru. Dead Woman's Pass is even steeper on the way down. 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 . [7], Another high point at elevation of 3650m is crossed, followed by a campground, and then after a short descent, a site with extensive ruins. Bring a daypack to carry your overnight and personal belongings, water, and provided boxed lunch. The 4-day Inca Trail is ideal for travelers looking for a physically challenging adventure. Its a nice starter to a much more difficult day ahead. A very thin sleeping mat was included, and carried by the porter, but it was also possible to rent a thin air-mattress for S/45 / 10 / $13 / 11 which had to be stored in the duffel bag (and weighed around 1 kg). Traveling to Peru and seeing Machu Picchu was one of them. Everything is set for you to walk the Inca Trail. The Inca trail map shows a 50 km extension of the trekking route to get to Machu Picchu from the "82 km" point. Highest point of the Inca Trail. If you do have any pre-existing medical requirements, inform your tour company when booking and also remind the CEO before setting out. Train | There is a train which runs from Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes (the Machu Picchu town), but this is really a tourist service and not relevant for reaching Cusco. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Thankfully, the Peruvians are a resourceful people and will go leaps and bounds to make a person in need is helped. So whats the Inca Trail hikes difficulty like? Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. 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. After the tunnel the town of Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes) can be seen, and trains running along the river can be heard. Rainy season days almost always bring drizzle or rain. Lowest Elevation: Do note that if you see a tour with fewer days offered, then you are only going to be hiking a small section of the route. No matter the season, make sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho as there is always the chance of showers in the Andes. The first 30 minutes of the trek is uphill, while the remainder of the trail is largely a descent. If hiring a porter, still carry a daypack with you. Bring a comfortable daypack with snug straps to wear while you hike. Day Three: Early rise to hike the most photogenic section of the Trail. One of the girls on our team got a busted knee on the descent after Dead Womans Pass not good. Inca Trail - Classic Hike To Machu Picchu (Complete Guide) February: Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. If you happen to change your passport between booking and arriving at the entry checkpoint at Km.82 (where they check your passport), then contact your tour company for advice. Day 2 is the most challenging day of the trek, as you will gain 3,988 ft (1,215 m) in elevation. It is also very common to see snow and ice near the summit . Compare this with the speed of the electric rail train or KRL Jabodetabek, which is 80-100 kilometers per hourbecause it is designed according to operational needs with relatively close distances between stations . There are amazing hostels in Cuscothat offer a comfy bed so you can start the next day well-rested and read to go. After taking transport from nearby Cusco, you meet your team and porters. SAM Travel Peru: Inca trail 4D/3N - See 3,255 traveler reviews, 2,451 candid photos, and great deals for Cusco, Peru, at Tripadvisor. The campsite at Llulluch'apampa (Llulluchapampa) is located on this stretch of trail at 3,800 metres (12,500ft). These can be purchased in Cusco or rented from your trekking company with advance notice. Most of the Machu Picchu hiking tours begin in Cusco, which, at 3,400 meters, is already considerably higher than Machu Picchu. Personally, we wouldnt recommend anyone under the age of 14 to do the trek due to group dynamics. When to book: 36 months in advance. The Inca Trail passes through four of the eight life zones described by Peruvian geographer Javier Pulgar Vida: Highest Elevation: Most operators advise hikers to purchase permits as soon as possible after they are released. When to book: 3 months in advance. Theyre easily my picj for the best Inca Trail tour. So, whether youre heading there in high or low season and want to understand the camping and accommodation situation better, have no idea what to pack or how to get a permit, are worrying about whether youre fit enough, will get altitude sickness or if its too late to book a spot on a tour, then this post will provide you with all the necessary information answers from experienced fellow travellers (and, we hope, quite a bit of excitement and inspiration for the hike itself!). For all the essential details on visiting Machu Picchu independently, read this post. Weve mentioned this earlier, but with the understanding that this is such an important purchase before you step foot in Peru, we thought it only correct to mention it again here. These ruins are at an altitude of 3750m (12,300ft). It consists of a 1500-meter descent into the subtropical cloud forests and through the Amazon basin. 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.
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