Chris is the CEO of The Adventure People and has over 20 years experience in the travel industry.
We often receive questions about The Inca Trail. For most people this is a once in a lifetime trek and so, its important to get a full understanding. To help get some answers on some common questions we've written a list of the most asked Inca Trail questions and added our answers. If you have any further questions about the trek itself, the gear, the weather or anything you can think of, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
The most common question! The Inca Trail is considered a moderate trek but it is worth noting there are a lot of staircases to climb and altitude can affect the body (and everyone In different ways). It is recommended that trekkers take a walking stick to assist with balance and to support knees.
How Many Hours are we hiking each day?
Lots of people ask about distance but really, the distances give a false idea as much trekking is up and down rather than flat. The estimate is around 6 to 9 hours trekking including rests for the first three days and around 2 hours on the final day.
Are there any physical requirements to trek The Inca Trail?
To trek the Inca Trail with you must be over the age of 12, with a moderate level of fitness, and hold a passport that is valid for up to six months.
How high is the trail?
The trek begins at 2,800m (9,186 ft). The highest point you’ll reach on the trek is approximately 4,200m (13,780ft). You’ll also sleep at 3,600m (11,811 ft) for at least one night.
How cold might it get?
It can get chilly due to the altitude. During the Andean winter (May – September) the temperature can drop below zero at night. It can be cool during the summer months too, so we suggest bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag.
Is it common to get altitude sickness?
It’s impossible to predict who will be affected by the altitude as your ability to adapt can vary from person to person. (We do recommend you undertake the trek in a good state of physical fitness.) Most of our travellers have no problem, as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. This might include spending a full day in Cuzco (3,249m [10,659 ft] above sea level) and drinking plenty of water.
Hiking the Inca Trail is popular all year round, however May to September is considered the high season. This means that permits can be sold out months in advance. However, if permits are not available, there is an option to walk the Lares Trek, which still takes you to Machu Picchu.
How far in advance should I book?
To reserve a spot on the Inca Trail, we recommend you book your tour at least six months in advance during high season (May to October) and three months in advanced during low season (November to April).
Do I need a permit?
Yes. We require the following information for the purchase of an Inca Trail permit:
Full name (as it appears on your passport)
Date of birth
Nationality
Passport number
Date of passport expiry (*Must be valid for the date of travel)
Please note that any attempts to modify your personal information will result in the loss of the permit. A refund will not be possible so make sure you double-check your information. As well, there’s a limited amount of permits in effort to preserve the trail.
When we reach Machu Picchu how much time do we spend there?
Reaching Machu Picchu depends on the campsite assigned to your group on the third night. However, many groups will reach the Sun Gate at around 6:00am. You’ll have plenty of time to soak in the ruins thanks to a two-hour guided tour and some free time to explore afterwards.
How do we get back to Cusco?
After you’ve taken in all the beauty of Machu Picchu, your group will travel by bus to Aguas Calientes and then catch a train back to Ollantaytambo, where you meet you’ll take a bus back to Cuzco.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
We use three-man tents to accommodate two same-sex travellers. There are a few places on the trail where permanent (but very rustic) toilet facilities exist, and when they’re not available, your crew will set up portable toilet tents.
Do porters carry our luggage on The Inca Trail?
Yes! We’ll provide you with a large stuff sac where you can place 6kg of your personal items (including your tent and sleeping bag). Our skilled porters will carry these bags while you hike the Inca Trail. Your other personal items will be stored safely at our hotel in Cuzco. All you need to carry is a daypack containing the things you’ll need during the day like water, camera, sunscreen, or anything else that’s over the 6kg allowance.
Will I be given a sleeping bag and mat?
Great question! Sleeping bags are not provided, so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. You can also rent a sleeping bag in Cuzco; just let us know when you book. Travellers are provided with foam mats, but please feel free to bring your own-self inflating mat if you’d like.
What type of food can I expect?
Cooks prepare excellent high-quality meals that are perfect for a day of trekking. The menu usually includes: pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables, oatmeal, and eggs. If you’re a vegetarian, no problem! We’re able to cater to your needs. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please let your guide know.
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