Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Guide for the Inca Trail 2024
If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail in 2024 but have some doubts, worry not! We’ve got you covered with our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) guide. Here, you’ll find all the answers you need to make your adventure unforgettable.
We’ve replaced “tour in Peru” with “Machu Picchu Excursions.” There are two main types of Inca Trail tours: the Classic Inca Trail, which takes four days and three nights, and the shorter two-day Inca Trail, an easier and faster route to Machu Picchu.
If permits are unavailable, no worries! There are many alternative tours to reach Machu Picchu, such as Machu Picchu tours by train or a combination of biking, hiking, and a Machu Picchu tour over four days and three nights.
The duration of hiking per day depends on the tour chosen, but generally, expect to hike for around six to eight hours per day. Despite the challenge, the breathtaking views and unique experience make it all worthwhile.
If you have other doubts, feel free to contact us. Our Machu Picchu Excursions team is here to help you make the most out of your Inca Trail adventure. Get ready to explore one of the most incredible places in the world!
If you’re excited about hiking the Inca Trail, know that it spans 42 kilometers (26 miles). During your journey, you’ll experience diverse landscapes of the Andes, including snow-capped mountains, rivers, high peaks, vast plains, and a sunny sky that will take your breath away.
We recommend reserving your tickets as early as possible, as the Inca Trail is highly popular, and tickets sell out quickly. Plan ahead, especially if visiting between November and March (3 months in advance) or during the high season (6 months in advance from April to October).
Regarding the difficulty of the Inca Trail, it’s rated as moderately difficult (3 on a scale of 1 to 5). There are Inca stairways to navigate, and varying temperatures and high altitude add to the challenge. However, don’t let this discourage you! The use of walking poles can significantly help.
The trail reaches 4,200 meters above sea level, with a campsite located at 3,600 meters. While it’s challenging to predict who will experience altitude sickness, it’s essential to prepare yourself physically and mentally. Don’t let fear hold you back from experiencing this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Check out our tips on how to prepare for the Inca Trail and make unforgettable memories.
On the fourth last day of the Inca Trail, most groups reach Inti Punku around 6:00 am. You’ll start hiking towards the gates at 4:30 am and enter the site 45 minutes later. Regarding luggage, don’t worry about carrying everything. We have a team of porters who will carry all the camping equipment, food, and water. You only need to carry a backpack with the necessary items for the day.
When planning to hike the Inca Trail, some important information is necessary. You’ll need a backpack with all the essential items, including a sleeping bag and mattress if you choose to rent them. The team will take care of transporting your luggage to the last campsite, where it will be returned to you.
Be prepared for cold temperatures, especially during winter (May to September). We recommend bringing locally made gloves and a hat to stay warm during chilly nights.
The team will provide tents set up by porters, boiled water in the morning, at lunch, and after dinner. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, it’s possible to rent one in Cusco, where we also recommend leaving unnecessary items during the trail.
The Inca Trail is an incredible experience, but it can be challenging. With the right preparation and assistance from our team, you can make the most of this adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning today and experience the beauty and history of Peru like never before!
