How to Hike Machu Picchu in Peru
Ever since it has been declared one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Peru's Machu Picchu has gained popularity as a hiking destination. A trail winds through lush mountainous areas and gushing rivers as hikers walk through the clouds and makes the excursion along the Inca Trail of Peru is a memorable experience. Due to the immense inflow of tourists, hiking Machu Picchu no longer is a simple matter of reporting to a tour operator office. Booking well in advance with the right tour agency is the key to an enriching trip on this ancient trail.
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Things You'll Need
- Cold- and wet-weather hiking gear
- Backpack
- Hiking boots
- Sleeping bag
- Flashlight
- Sunscreen
Instructions
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Plan the trip three months or more in advance because there are limited slots available on the hiking trails each day. Browse websites that offer hiking packages to Machu Picchu, and find a licensed tour operator. Hiking to Machu Picchu can be done via a strenuous four-day/three-night trail or an easier two-day/one-night trip. Select the tour based on physical fitness levels.
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Check the hiking and accommodation arrangements provided to trekkers. Pay special attention to the size of the group; a large group can mean more noise. Find out about the availability of English-speaking guides, the number of porters and food arrangements. Ensure that the agency does not wait for a particular group size to be filled before departure.
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Get into a regular exercising routine that builds up physical and mental endurance. The trek to Machu Picchu can be physically demanding if not in good physical shape. Prepare by taking up routines, such as weight training, running, cycling, walking uphill or running up and down stairs with a full backpack.
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Pack your cold- and wet-weather hiking gear, hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a flashlight and sunscreen along with personal clothing and toiletries. The trail to Machu Picchu is a strenuous one. Have one bag for all belongings and a separate backpack for things needed on a daily basis. Don't forget to pack a camera to record the beauty of the trail.
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Arrive in Cusco a few days before the scheduled hiking trip begins to allow for altitude acclimation. The path to Machu Picchu reaches more than 13,000 feet, and insufficient acclimatization makes the hike difficult and painful. Allow at least two days of acclimation before beginning the hike.
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Visit the tour operator office to confirm the date and time of departure. Collect information regarding the excursion guidelines. Report to the predetermined spot on the day the trip begins and enjoy the hike to Machu Picchu.
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Tips & Warnings
Inquire with tour operators about booking a trip so as to reach Machu Picchu on the full-moon day. This is considered by many as a memorable way to experience the beauty of the area.
Respect the ancient nature of the hiking trail and do not litter the area with trash.
References
- Photo Credit View of Machu Picchu from Wayna Picchu image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com
