Short Inca Trail Strategies: How to Prepare & What to Know

For nature and adventure lovers, especially those who want to reach Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail, which, by the way, will transport you to a new world where you will trade the noise of the city for the beautiful singing of birds and the most beautiful landscapes you can imagine.

Review the Inca Trail Permits

However, doing this trek is difficult, especially for those not usually used to exercise or physical effort. In some areas, the Inca Trail route exceeds 4000 meters above sea level, so you must take some precautions, as CuscoPeru.com will describe below.

Remember that the shorter your hike, the fewer objects you should carry so that your backpack’s weight does not interfere with your transfer.

ABOUT THE CLOTHING:

It does not matter how many days you will hike; the truth is that you will go from one altitude to another, which implies that the weather (climate) will change. For this, the most convenient thing will be to wear comfortable clothes in small quantities. For example:

• Divers, maybe a couple.
• Trekking shoes are necessary to avoid falling or slipping during the walk
• With waterproof garments, there may be drizzle on the road, and since this is very common, walking in wet conditions will be uncomfortable and may lead to respiratory diseases.
• In these times, it is no news that the sun burns, even if it is not intense. Accompany this hat with good sunscreen. Taking care of your skin and your health is a priority.
• You will need towels and bathing suits, and there are camping areas with showers along the way. You will also find some rivers, where you can cool off if the guide allows.
• It would help if you had the necessary underwear for every day.
• A small blanket for the nights, because it’s cold.

Early morning in incredible Machu Picchu

ON HEALTH:

• As you already know, during the Inca Trail, you go over 4000 meters above sea level, and if you come from a country that is almost at sea level, then you must take the following precautions:
• In the first few days, you must adjust to the altitude. Here are Tips for Altitude Sickness
• You should eat light and avoid heavy meals
• The first days in Cusco should be calm and low-impact. Follow your rhythm.
• Always drink bottled water; this will help you stay hydrated. If you don’t want bottled water, you can buy water purification tablets.
• If you feel you’re lacking oxygen, take a break.
• Also, if you feel any strange ailment, you MUST notify the guide (they have to help you whenever you need it)
• When you can, drink an infusion of coca leaves.

ABOUT THE LUGGAGE:

• The most advisable thing is to carry a backpack from which you do not detach during the walk. There must be a few things within it that are the most necessary. Here are the recommendations:
• Blocker and insect repellent.
• Personal hygiene items.
• Fresh fruits, candies, and chocolates are suitable for accumulating energy.
• Money (local currency soles)
• Walking stick.
• Flashlight and batteries.
• Sunglasses, lip balm
• A photo camera.