How to Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is definitely a challenge, but it is one that you will never forget or take for granted. There are shorter hikes that you can take, but in order to truly appreciate Machu Picchu and Peru, it is recommended that you take the 4-day, 3-night hike (there is also a longer hike, which is also recommended).

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A reputable, reliable travel agency to book your hike.
• Hiking gear:
• Backpack (a good backpack is one that will snap together across your chest and/or at your waist). This is a MUST, especially if you are not going to hire your own personal porter.
• Hiking boots - a MUST
• Warm clothes
• Scarf and hat/beanie
• Warm gloves (optional, but recommended)
• Purell or Germ-X
• Toilet paper
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellant (the mosquitoes are barely noticeable and are relentless)
• Camera

1. Choose your travel agency carefully, and MONTHS in advance. In order to hike the Inca Trail, you must be issued a permit. If your requested dates are not available, don't waste your time looking for other agencies that *might* have some permits for that date. There is a limited amount of permits issued by the government for each day, and once those are gone, NO ONE can get one.
2. Read all details of the trip that the agency provides, compare them to other offers and compare prices, even if this takes some time. Don't settle for the "cheapest" agency; you will only be cheating yourself. Having a good tour guide throughout the 4 days will make the difference between just *being* in Peru and actually becoming part of the ancient Incan culture and the natural beauty of Peru.
3. On the night before the tour, watch what you eat! Do NOT get food poisoning or you will not be able to hike the Inca Trail. You will not be able to get another permit for any time soon.
4. On top of the world While on the hike, take your time to enjoy the surrounding nature. Listen to the tour guide and ask questions. If you are having trouble with the steep hills, slow down to your own pace and don't worry about the rest of the group.
5. After the hike is finished and you have toured the city of Mach Picchu, you will take a bus to Agua Calientes. From here, the only way back to Cusco is by train. If possible, try to get a train ride early in the day. If you wait until the last trip of the day, you will be on the train for hours and it will most likely be packed with people.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the agency offers your first view of Machu Picchu at sunrise. This is a breathtaking view that you will want to experience.
• Talk to the others in your group, or people in other groups that are on the trail.
• Be open to trying new things, such as the drinks and food that the locals sell along the trail.
• If you do not want to carry your things, such as your sleeping bag and mat, you may want to hire a porter. The hike is very strenuous and your pack gets heavier and harder to carry.
• Pack light - don't worry about having to wear the same, unwashed clothes. It may sound distasteful but everything you wear will get dirty anyway and you will be glad for the lighter pack.
• If you have asthma or health problems, let your travel agency know in advance.
• Read ALL instructions provided by the agency and make sure you have taken care of all the legal requirements (i.e., Passport information, etc.). If your information is wrong you will NOT be hiking the Inca Trail.