During the trek, days are planned so that you have plenty of time to get from one point to the next. Day 2 is the biggest elevation gain on your hike. There is no camping involved, as travelers spend the night in a hotel after hiking to Machu Picchu. The pass itself is located at 4,215m (13,829ft) above sea level, and is the highest point on this, the "Classic" trail. There are several checkpoints along the route that monitor this. 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!). In addition to all the equipment, pots and pans, food, and trash that they had to carry, they also now had a grown adult on their backs. A significant chunk of that 40 kms is up steep, narrow Andean mountain paths at altitude. Instituto Nactional de Cultura. Save $$$ Save the Planet Save Your Stomach! Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be transferred to another individual. Hiking the Inca Trail is a feat of endurance that is just as much about the mind as the body. Intipata (aka Yunkapata)[8] is a recently uncovered extensive set of agricultural terraces which follow the convex shape of the terrain. It is also very common to see snow and ice near the summit . If you havent planned your visit yet, then read our guide to the best things to do in Cusco. The trek allows hikers to witness the diverse microclimates of the Andes, from grassy plains and dramatic peaks to lush cloud forest. The Inca Trail elevation ranges from about 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) to 13,800 feet (4,200 meters). If the skies are clear, you will enjoy an outstanding view of the Machu Picchu ruins from above. When to book: a minimum of 6 months in advance. 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? The trails in Machu Picchu have a limited number of permits per day. A: The Inca Trail reaches an altitude of 2,700 meters (9300 feet) at its highest point. 7 things no-one tells you about the Inca Trail - Intrepid Travel Blog Dead Womans Pass: 13,828 ft (4,215 m) After all, you dont want the upfront savings to mean inadequate equipment, poor quality food, or a less memorable experience. High elevation is the greatest challenge on the Inca Trail Trek. After all trekkers from your group have arrived at the Sun Gate, you will continue to the Machu Picchu citadel for your 2.5-hour tour. In addition to the Classic 4-day Inca Trail trek, there is a shorter full-day trek. Guides are required to carry oxygen tanks in case of emergencies. April & October It's emotional and so much fun. ", This page was last edited on 5 December 2022, at 05:54. Plan ahead . This is the most dangerous point for altitude sickness, though . In the late afternoon, you will arrive at the Sun Gate. 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. Cons | Dry season also coincides with high tourism season in Peru (June - August), so the Inca Trail will be at full capacity each day. A daypack to carry water, a boxed lunch provided by your hiking guide, camera, personal items for your overnight in Aguas Calientes, etc. Please consult your Travel Advisor with specific questions regarding trekking equipment and rental options during your Inca Trail trekking experience. 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. Pros | The chance of rain, as the name would suggest, is significantly reduced and you can expect hot, dry mornings and afternoons. 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). Remember, you can always pay for an extra porter ahead of time if you need help carrying your things. 3: Its amazing the friendships that can come out of struggle and perseverance. Day 2 is considerably more difficult due to the severe elevation gain and altitude of the Inca Trail. Inca Trail tours cost from 550 per person up to 1,500; if you see a price any cheaper than the bottom-end of this range, then be very sceptical. Each campsite has toilet facilities available, but these are often rudimentary squat toilets and with campsites being so remote and over-subscribed, cleanliness understandably isnt the highest. The name Wiay Wayna (forever young) (win-yay-way-na) is used to refer to both a hostelrestaurantcamp site and a set of Inca ruins. High probability of rain on any given day. 2023 Best 10 Trails and Hikes in Jakarta | AllTrails This will vary from tour to tour, and also may evolve as Machu Picchu continues to change its own rules and restrictions to abate UNESCOs concerns, but on our own tour we enjoyed a full morning to explore Machu Picchu from about 7 a.m. until 11.30 a.m. (we could have stayed another hour but by that point we were desperate for a beer and lunch!). 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 trekking team will wake you before sunrise to ensure that you arrive at Machu Picchus Sun Gate by mid-morning. In terms of showers, weve found on our various multi-day group hikes that people can be split into two camps: Those who will take a cold shower rather than being a little smelly. If hiring a porter, still carry a daypack with you. Even before passing through the tunnel there are views down to the Willkanuta River, the first since leaving the river at Patallaqta. If you do have any pre-existing medical requirements, inform your tour company when booking and also remind the CEO before setting out. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (also known as Camino Inca or Camino Inka) is a hiking trail in Peru that terminates at Machu Picchu. Lightweight travel towel to shower with and a small (inflatable) travel pillow for your sleeping comfort. 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. If you are looking for a more personal, private outdoor experience, I recommend you pick a less prevalent adventure as there are many alternative Inca sites to choose from around the Cusco area. Not a bad view from Warmi Wausqa in Peru with @intrepidtravel! 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. Trust me, once you see all that is included and all the work that the porters and tour guide do, you will realize it is well worth every penny paid. When you get to the top, you can take pictures in the snow to display your fortitude. Because of previous damage caused by hooves, pack animals are not allowed on the remainder of the trail. The lowest point on the trail at Llactapata ruins is roughly 2250m (7,382ft). To visit Machu Picchu at any time, whether you plan to hike for the day or for several nights, will require booking a permit. Don't overpack. [3], It starts from one of two points: 88km (55 miles) or 82km (51 miles) from Cusco on the Urubamba River at approximately 2,800 metres (9,200ft) or 2,600 metres (8,500ft) elevation, respectively.[3]. Rooted in Inca heritage, this centuries-old path gives hikers the chance to walk in the footsteps of pre-Columbian royalty. A portable power bank is also useful. 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 trail continues to ascend, passing a small lake named Quchapata (Cochapata)[6] in an area that is recognized as deer habitat. 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. Bring a daypack to carry your overnight and personal belongings, water, and provided boxed lunch. Before leaving, I had heard horror stories about the difficulty of the hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We recommend 2 nights or more if possible. Inca Trail altitude 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. Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek: Which Hike to Machu Picchu is Better The Inca Trail has an elevation range between 2,200m (7,218ft) and 4,200m (13,780ft) above sea level. This highest point of the trek at 4,215 m (3,828 ft) with stunning views at the summit. However, the altitude, which at it's highest point is 13,776 ft or 4200m, can cause problems even for the strongest hikers. 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 . Whatever equipment you bring, you may not always get the best nights sleep - and it may be quite chilly in the evening - but its all part of the experience! The best time of year to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season (MaySeptember). The 4-Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the magnificent hikes I have ever done. Tours are slightly cheaper and easier to book with only a few weeks notice (a guy on our tour booked his place only a week before the trip began). The remainder of the group will return to Aguas Calientes and board the train for their returns to the Sacred Valley or Cusco. The Inca Trail is a well-established and iconic 4-day, 3-night hike which leads travellers from km.82 (the start point 40 minutes outside the town of Ollantaytambo) all the way to Machu Picchu via its exclusive Sun Gate (also called Inti Punku). Cuzco Region Machu Picchu Peru. right now). Once used as a checkpoint for those entering and exiting the holy city, this viewpoint affords hikers unrivaled views of the citadel far below. Physically prepare by training at home in the months leading up to your trip. 98 steps lead to this site, which is positioned on a cliff that affords splendid views of the Aobamba Valley. 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. Although the hike is only one day long, this doesnt mean it is easy. Once youve booked a tour and committed to the hike, there are some key milestones to hit before you get anywhere near South America. Forgetting to book permits in advance for the Inca Trail and shorter day hikes is a mistake. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack works well for this. Sounds creepy, but it really isnt. 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). Permits for the Inca Trail sell out quickly, sometimes 5 months in advance for dates during the dry season (MaySeptember). The trail reaches 13,828 ft (4,215 m) on Day 2 and 12,500 feet (3,900 m) on Day 3. 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. However, each trekker is responsible for transporting their personal items (clothing, toiletries, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, etc.). Let your Travel Advisor know if you'd be interested, as Inca Trail permits also need to be purchased in advance for porters. Along the way, you will stop at Llactapata, an Inca archaeological site located at the convergence of the Cusichaca and Vilcanota Rivers. Start planning your Machu Picchu hiking holiday. The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. We have summarized everything you need to know before embarking on this incredible journey. Remember that batteries deplete faster at higher elevations. Finally, when booking your tour for the Inca Trail, make sure that the tour operator is selling you the right trek and not misleading you with a similar sounding hike. On your first day of hiking the Inca Trail, you will typically embark from the KM82 route. Inca Trail Elevation Gain - Day 1, 2, 3 and 4 - Machu Picchu MP Bring extra batteries for personal electronics like cameras and cell phones. See below for our packing recommendations. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking. The biggest surprise for us both on the Trail was just how incredible the food provided was every single day. All companies operating the Inca Trail must be registered and have a special operators license, which is renewed annually. In all my experiences traveling and adventuring, the hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail still stands as my most spectacular. The Inca Trail in Peru, South America - G Adventures The 4-day Inca Trail begins at Km 82 which has an elevation of 8,230 ft (2,600 m). If youve never camped before, than that is all about to change! 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). Keep that in mind as you will need good long-range planning to make sure your spot is reserved. As with any trek, you should take proper precautions and make sure that you bring the correct gear and clothing. Every extra pound matters! Hiking boots with a solid tread and ankle support to help prevent injuries. Marci Vaughn Kolt. From May to September The days are sunny and the nights are very cold. The outline of the mountains at one point resembles a woman lying on her back. For those that would prefer more privacy, you can also pay extra for your own one-man tent. are 500 permits available, approximately 200 allocated to tourists and 300 to guides, porters, and cooks. 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). If you have any doubts about whether you are covered for hiking the Inca Trail, speak with your insurance company. While the trekking team makes the experience very comfortable, three nights camping in a tent is perhaps not for everyone. 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 . Even during the dry season there is the chance of rain, so make sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho. 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. Theyre easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. 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. Pack a hat, strong sunblock, and glasses for protection against the sun. 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. I really have no idea how they made such incredible meals when they were literally in the middle of the jungle. This means it is necessary for everyone to obtain permits in advance to do the hike. 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.. After passing Pakaymayu the trail begins steeply ascending the other side of the valley. Everything is set for you to walk the Inca Trail. Pictures just dont do it justice. 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). [3] Looking for all the essential information to plan and prepare for the Inca Trail hike? Altitude sickness on the Inca Trail is rarely severe. Difficulty | Moderate to a little difficult as there are several steep sections. [10], From Wiay Wayna the trail undulates along below the crest of the east slope of the mountain named Machu Picchu. Remember the part where youre trekking through mountains at 13,000 feet? As our guide Elias told us, the key thing for everyone to make the overall experience on the Inca Trail better is a positive mental attitude. This day offers a great feeling of achievement when you get to Dead Womans Pass which is named after the resemblance of the mountains shadow of a womans head. Instead, your trekking team will bring a portable toilet that will be set up during lunch and at each campsite. Plan to spend two to three days staying in Cusco acclimatizing before beginning the trek. Torre Mirador is 12.5 mi (20 km) to the north of Nazca city along the Panamerican Highway. A large number of these companies are only established to provide specific private tours in high season, with the rest offering year-round expeditions. When to book: 36 months in advance. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Wikipedia Nearby mountains are usually flanked by mist and the regions diverse flora is in full bloom. Rain gear for the trek and thermal layers to wear at night are recommended. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is arguably the most famous trail in all of South America. 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! Km 82, starting point of the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a 4 day hike at a very high altitude in the Andes Mountains. 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. Altitude on the Inca Trail. Rain is likely during April and October and almost guaranteed between November and March making them a much less suitable time to walk to Machu Picchu the wet llamas are cute though! Inca Trail - Classic Hike To Machu Picchu (Complete Guide) The Inca trail map shows a 50 km extension of the trekking route to get to Machu Picchu from the "82 km" point. Days are warm, nights are freezing. SAM Travel Peru: Outstanding Inca Trail 2023 - See 3,262 traveler reviews, 2,463 candid photos, and great deals for Cusco, Peru, at Tripadvisor. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for tipping and lunch in Aguas Calientes. Group porters carry tents, cooking equipment, portable restrooms, and other communal items. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once youve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.If theres one insurance company I trust, its World Nomads. If you are struggling, its their job to control the situation, help you get to camp, and also to manage the overall group schedule. 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. I don't think so. 1)and theres also the bush. As is Puno and Juliaca if you're planning to visit Lake Titicaca. full details on whats included in G Adventures Inca Trail Tour here, 11 Things To Know Before You Visit Rainbow Mountain in Peru, 13 Wonderful Things To Do in Cusco | The Gateway to the Sacred Valley, A Guide to Visiting to Pisac, Peru | The Ruins + Market, The Boleto Turistico | Everything You Need To Know About Cusco's Tourist Ticket, The Inca Trail Packing List | What You Need to Bring in 2023, A Short Guide to Ollantaytambo | Peru's Train Ride Town, (Updated 2022) A Guide to Huaraz | Peru's Hiking Capital, Seven of the Best Day Trips From Cusco | Ruins, Mountains and Pretty Little Towns. No matter the season, make sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho as there is always the chance of showers in the Andes. It is possible to book a longer organised Peru tour which includes the Inca Trail within it, or to simply include it on your own independent Peru + South American adventure. This means fuller camp sites and more traffic along the Trail (although the tours do try and stagger this out). 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. This system is still in effect; any person wishing to hike the Inca Trail must obtain a permit beforehand. Cusco is exceptionally easy to reach from various parts of Peru, but there are no direct flights to Cusco from the US, Canada or Europe. So youve decided to hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. For high season travel (AprilOctober) and December holidays, permits can sell out up to six months before travel. clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, toiletries). 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). If the sky is clear, the views of Llulluchapampa Valley are phenomenal. Inca Trail weather during the shoulder months is variable and it is common to experience all four seasons in one day. Rainy season days almost always bring drizzle or rain. Youll find it in this post. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is May throughSeptember when there is less rain and the temperatures are slightly cooler. On challenging sections, you can set your own pace and take as many or as few breaks as you need. At 4,215m, it's the highest point of the Inca Trail and is nearly 1,800m higher than Machu Picchu! We have these excellent lightweight sleeping bags, but its also possible to rent them - just note that the ones available for rental are bulky and weigh around 2 kgs. This total includes 4-day, and 5-day routes, as well as trekking guides, porters, and chefs. However, there are a few key things to know about how luggage and kit is transported on the hike before you even think about whether you really need that extra pair of pants. What is the High Inca Trail? Personally, we wouldnt recommend anyone under the age of 14 to do the trek due to group dynamics. The highest point on the Inca Trail is Abra Warmihuausca or 'Dead Woman's Pass which is located at 4,200 meters. Each porter should be tipped around 30-40 soles (about $10-$15) for the entire group. If youre reading the above and thinking that neither sounds appealing now, then please dont be too despondent - the Inca Trail can be hiked year-round and weve just outlined the worst cons of each season so that you dont have any nasty surprises! It is very important to secure your Inca Trail permits in advance. The Inca Trail passes through four of the eight life zones described by Peruvian geographer Javier Pulgar Vida: Highest Elevation: Nights are warmer compared to the dry season. Lastly, our guide told us that the nighttime temperatures in dry season drop significantly, so expect cold nights in the tent. If you are not ready for the challenge of multi-day trekking, your mind might give up long before your body does. The second day is the hardest, starting at 10,000 feet (3,000 m) and ascending to Dead Woman's Pass. All permits are paired with an individual passport and are not transferable. The first 30 minutes of the trek is uphill, while the remainder of the trail is largely a descent. For this reason, all Adventure Life trips involving this hike require spending at . In short, you will have plenty time to explore Machu Picchu and take some great photos before the day-tripper hordes arrive. Many trekkers also choose to hire a porter to carry personal belongings. You will also benefit from training your legs to walk/hike on stairways or steep slopes. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Tipping is not mandatory, and you are entitled to put in more, less, or nothing at all. Your guide will take you on a 2.5-hour tour of the citadel, where you will learn about its fascinating history. Bring local currency (Soles) in your wallet so that you can tip your trekking team. Hiking Peru's Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Altitude, Distances If your main consideration however is that you may not be able to hike for the full four days, consider joining this two-day tour. Your guide will show you the most important areas of the site and share with you their historical and cultural significance. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Machu Travel Peru Starting at 2,600 metres, the trail ascends to 3,300 metres on the first day. 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. After the ruins, the trail continues its ascent to the top of the pass at 3975m (13,035ft). As mentioned, the tour company will provide the tents and porters will carry the majority of the camping equipment. The government monitors the trail closely; there are several control points along the trail. 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!). The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (also known as Camino Inca or Camino Inka) is a hiking trail in Peru that terminates at Machu Picchu. Inca Trail permits sell out fast for these months. A chef accompanies each group and prepares breakfast and three course lunches and dinners. Two groups of major architectural structures, a lower and upper, are set among multiple agricultural terraces at this concave mountainside site. All Rights Reserved, {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, Inca Trail Elevation The Ups And Downs To Machu Picchu. At 26 miles long, it's tempting for hikers to think that the Inca Trail is an easy hike. Close. Chachabamba: 6,725 ft (2,050 m) 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. Only Inca Trail trekkers are awarded the privilege of arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate entrance. These ruins are at an altitude of 3750m (12,300ft). 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. Trekkers head for the snow-capped mountains of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range. Some campsites have on-site restrooms and showers, however, these are not well maintained. Let your guide know if you are struggling and especially if your symptoms get worse. The first half of the hike to Machu Picchu includes steep inclines and many stone steps. Ive hiked all over the USA and other parts of the world but nothing has ever affected me in such a way as the Inca Trail did. Porters can be hired to carry up to 18 lb (8 kg) or 33 lb (15 kg). Something as minor as a flight delay can have a significant financial impact, as can illness, bad weather or baggage delay. Whichever tour company you do the Inca Trail with, you will be expected to tip your support staff of porters and guides. A small spur of the trail leads directly to Wiay Wayna, while the main route continues to Intipata. The most visitors the park allows is 500 a day and that includes guides and porters which make up over half that number. Take a break to catch your breath and enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba River below the sites green terraces. After the Sun gate, it is a short and scenic downhill walk to Machu Picchu. If youre hiking in the dry (high) season, then you should be making a reservation sooner rather than later (i.e. 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.