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Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an incredible once in a lifetime trip. Understanding what the Inca Trail is all about and getting all your questions answered about hiking, is really important. Whether you are hiking the entire Classic Inca Trail in 4 or 5 days, or choosing to do a short Inca Trail hike for 2 days – these FAQs will answer all your questions about the Inca Trail. Let’s start!
No. The Inca trail is part of the road network the Inca´s built to connect their vast empire. The Inca trail is historically important because of its intricate construction in unforgiving terrain and leads to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is an architectural marvel that was the home to the royalty of the Inca empire.
This depends on the tour operator. Orange Nation includes a 2 hour guided tour of the citadel with a knowledgeable guide that can speak English and Spanish.
There are various routes to take on the Inca trail. The classic trail can be done over 4 or 5 days. Whereas, with the Short Inca Trail, the hike only takes a day and covers the 1/3 of the Inca Trail.
No. There are numerous alternative treks you can do like Lares, Salkantay or Choquequirao. Also, if you hiking is not for you, then a 1-day tour on the expedition train or the more luxurious Vistadome Train is the perfect option for you.
Dry season is from April to September, this is the tourist peak season. Temperatures range from 15°C/59°F to 20°C/68°F during day and a chilly 0°C/32°F to 5°C/41°F at night. Day 1 and Day 2 are a lot colder than day 3. On day 3 you reach lower altitudes and enter a subtropical zone. We recommend always wearing warmer clothes at night. The days provide for a very pleasant hike with the sun streaming down.
Rainy season from November to April with plenty rainy days, but the night temperatures are a little warmer. This is off peak season and there are fewer people on the trail. You are likely to experience tropical downpours at any given moment. However, rains don´t usually last long and will sometimes occur while you sleep.
Each season has its pros and cons. Dry season is regarded by many as the best time to hike the Inca Trail. June, July and August being the busiest months on the trek. The weather is great for hiking and in June there are many festivals to enjoy in Cusco before or after your trek. However, expect big crowds, especially at Machu Picchu. Rainy season does present its own challenges. Hiking in the rain can be challenging especially for an inexperienced hiker. But there are fewer people on the trail and at Machu Picchu, which makes for a more tranquil and peaceful visit.
Click on the following link for a comprehensive list on what to on the Inca Trail. Orange Nation Packing List.
Since 2002 everyone needs a guide and permit to hike this historical monument. The Peruvian government imposed a number of regulations and limitations on the number of people that can start the trek on any given day. They did this to ensure the continued preservation of this for future generations.
During the high-season its not recommended. For classic Inca Trail you need to book at least 4-6 months in advance, and during the off-peak season than 2 to 3 months is okay.
There are many questions to ask yourself and factors to consider before settling on a tour operator. We recommend choosing a local tour operator because only they can be licensed to do the Inca Trail and are less likely to hand you over to third party. Click the following link for more information: Choosing the best tour operator.
The company focuses on quality treks and tours for those that are budget conscious. The company tour guides, porters and cooks have shares in the company, and earn a fair amount for their level of contributions. When you choose this company, you make a direct impact to all the lives of the people that make your adventure memorable. The company has also has plenty of excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. Definitely, one to consider.
Website: https://www.orange-nation.com/
SAM Travel Peru is a highly professional tour & trekking company that caters for travellers of all age groups, making sure everyone makes it to their intended destination. A key feature offered by SAM Travel is small group sizes. They never exceed eight trekkers per group, unlike many operators who will happily reach the maximum group limit of 16 people. The company’s Peruvian owner, Saul Alvarez, has been working along the Inca Trail since the age of 18, as a porter and later as a guide.
Website: https://www.samtravelperu.com/
Glamping Peru Treks creates treks and tours that offer unsurpassed luxury and comfort while hiking off the beaten track. All accommodations, food, and services are of the highest quality and standard. If you are looking for something UPSCALE AND LUXURIOUS while trekking or touring, this is the absolute best option for you. Do not be afraid to work with their service operators to create your dream personalized luxury trek or tour. The company group size averages 2 to 4 people, not exceeding 8 people. If you love your privacy, be sure to ask for a private tour. This company is the birth child of the well established and experienced Sam Travel Peru.
Website: https://glampingperutreks.com/
Spider Travel is a new & innovative local tour operator in Cusco, covering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lares Trek, Tour Packages to Machu Picchu, Luxury glamping treks, Rainbow Mountain and the Choquequirao trek.
Website: https://www.spidertravelperu.com/
APPLE TRAVEL was established in 2021 , by a group of experienced tour guides from around the Cusco region. Their main feature is their pricing. They work to ensure that they don´t comprimise on quality, while saving you a buck. Striving to provide simplified quality service. Experience, small group sizes and reasonable prizes, what more do you need?
Website: www.appletravelperu.com
No. There Inca Trial is suitable for all ages.
You can store your luggage at your hotel or with us Orange Nation for free.
Orange Nation offers the highest quality camping equipment. Our 4 person tents are spacious and only sleep 2 people with a comfortable foam mattress. We also bring our own portable toilet along the trek which is much cleaner than the facilities provided by the government. We also rent out walking sticks and Therma rest mattresses if should you need it.
The Inca Trail is considered to be a moderate hike. However, its not to be underestimated. There are thousands of steps on the trail which is taxing on the knees and legs. Some sections require a steep climb at very high altitudes. Day 2 notably the most challenging day of all. All in all, the Inca steps and high elevation are the biggest challenges on this trek, but you can enjoy a few sections where the hike is on flat terrain.
Simply put. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy it. You do not have to be an athlete to do the Inca Trail, but you do need to be moderately fit. Age or gender is not really a factor, as long as prepare beforehand, the trek will not be that challenging. We recommend you establishing a regular exercise routine which could include walking 15km/9miles a day or doing an hour a day on stair master. Finally, it´s important to spend 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley acclimatizing to the altitude.
Each day is different. Day 1 is an easy to moderate 6-hour hike. Whereas, Day 2 is challenging day with 9 hours of hiking. Day 3 on the other hand, is just 5 hours, with time to rest and relax after lunch. On Day 4 there is not much hiking, just time to explore and gape at the magnificent archeological site of Machu Picchu. Note: All times are estimates, time is dependent on the individuals hiking speed.
The trail begins at Km 82 at an elevation of 2 680m. Days 1 and 3 are easy to moderate, gaining less than 500m in altitude on each day. However, the second day can be extremely challenging, with an elevation gain of 1 180m/3 871ft. Embark on a steep hike towards the highest point of the trail called Dead Women´s pass at (4 200m/ 13 779ft). The last day is a relaxing short hike, mostly on flat terrain toward the highlight of your trip the mysterious Machu Picchu.
Most people suffer from some form of attitude sickness, but its severity differs from one person to the next. There are ways to help reduce altitude sickness. Most importantly, acclimatizing is essential, also stay hydrated and breath slow deep breath to compensate for the low oxygen. Altitude sickness is not directly linked to fitness, every person reacts differently to the thin oxygen. Click the following link for more information on altitude sickness and remedies. Altitude Sickness.
The Classic Inca Trail is 43km/26m. The short Inca Trail is a third of that, at 14.5km/9m from Km84.
With Orange Nation expect a first-class dining experience. The chef uses freshly sourced ingredients. Every meal is unique, abundant and well prepared. Meals generally include breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The only exceptions being day 1 and day 4. You will indulge and be spoilt with our fine dining in a tent.
Hygiene is of the most important, all utensils and cutlery are cleaned with boiled water. In general, the highest standards of cleanliness are upheld.
Every morning after breakfast, the guide will provide you with boiled water to fill your reusable water bottle for the day ahead. On the first day, its important to bring sufficient water because you will only get boiled water at your first lunch sport.
There are campsites that have cold showers, but you need to be aware the mornings are freezing cold in the mountains. We recommend bringing a pack of baby wipes and taking advantage of the small basin provided every morning with warm water.
The government provides restroom facilities at some of the campsites. These are not always clean. So, Orange Nation provides its own portable toilet, that is clean and reserved for use by only our guests.
Porters are the ladies and gentlemen that have been employed to carry your luggage and set up camp. Most porters come from disadvantaged communities and appreciate the work. Outside of the Inca trail, the majority of porters are farmers from the mountain side villages that are isolated from towns and cities.
Yes. You can request an extra personal porter at booking for an extra fee.
Tipping is not a compulsory service. Even if it’s not customary in your country, it’s an entrenched part of the culture here especially on the Inca Trail. It’s of great significance to the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires them to give excellent service. Of course, you are free to tip what you feel is appropriate. Depending on your perception of the quality of service and the length of your trip.
In the event that you are unable to finish the track due to health reasons than your tour operator will assist you to the nearest town. Its absolutely essential to have travel insurance before embarking on the Inca Trail. If needed, a helicopter pick up can be arranged. It is important to note however, any costs will be for your account and travel insurance comes in very handy. Licensed tour guides carry a first aid kit, but they are not medical personal and they cannot administer or offer advice on any medication.
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