The Inca Trail

Hiking

V!VA User‘s Description

Characterized by rugged ascents boasting magnificent views of Andean scenery and trails that wind their way through the cloud forest and past ancient archaeological sites, the Inca Trail is perhaps the eminent South American experiences.

While other trails in the Sacred Valley area and around Cusco offer the same spectacular scenery, this is the only Inca trail that leads to the awesome gates of Machu Picchu, the ultimate climax to any trekking experience. This world-famous trail is part of the Sanctuario Histórico de Machu Picchu, an area of over 32,000 hectares set aside by the Peruvian state to protect the host of flora and fauna that flourish here. In 2001, in an attempt to restrict the number of hikers and damage to the trail, the Peruvian government established new regulations requiring all Inca Trail hikers to be accompanied by a licensed guide.

Currently, a maximum of 500 hikers are allowed on the trail per day. Recently, regulations involved in obtaining an Inca Trail trekking permit have changed. Please note: In order to secure your permit you must now provide your passport information no later than 90 days before your departure. So plan ahead, book early and avoid added stress.

Tours can be arranged through a number of tour companies in Cusco, and most cost between $200 and $300, which includes the entrance fee ($50 for adults, $25 for students and free for children under 11), transportation to and from the trail, an English-speaking guide, tents, mattress, three daily meals and porters who carry group gear. 

For about $50 extra/trip a personal porter can be hired to carry your gear. If you'e inclined (and it's recommended) you can tip your porters and guides. Independent travelers will generally be placed with a mixed group of travelers, and groups tend to be between 12 and 16 people. For premium-class service, groups are generally smaller and an upgrade on the return train is included. Prices for these treks range from $275 to $650 per person.

Be cautious if the price is under $180, as the company may be cutting corners, or not adhering to the strict environmental regulations recently imposed. Only purchase your ticket from officially licensed agencies, and be sure to make your payments at the physical tour agency office. Direct any questions you may have regarding a tour company to the main tourism office in Cusco. You can save a little money by arranging your own transport back to Ollantaytambo, either for the last day of your tour, or by staying an extra night in Aguas Calientes and taking the early morning train, then catching a bus back to Cusco.

If you do take the train back to Cusco after your tour, make sure your return ticket has your name on it for the tourist train, or you will have to pay for any changes. Be sure to inquire if the guide for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will be the same, as some companies save money by sending a less experienced guide on the trail and hiring a new, certified guide at Machu Picchu. Also, if you have any concerns regarding the working conditions of the porters, contact Porteadores Inka Nan, Dept. 4 Choquechaca 188, Cusco, Telephone: 246829.

When To Go

The single most important factor in planning your Inca Trail experience is making sure you give yourself plenty of time to acclimatize to the high altitude before attempting the physically demanding trail. The best way to avoid soroche, or altitude sickness, is to spend a few days in the Sacred Valley area, which is slightly lower in elevation. The first two days of the climb involve arduous ascents, so do not attempt them if you're feeling unwell.

In most cases, four days will ensure a comfortable journey, and you should allow an extra day to see Machu Picchu after recovering from the hike. Usually the best month for trekking the Inca trail is May, when the weather is fine and skies are clear. From June to September, the trail is a busy stretch of mountainside, with people from all over the world flocking to its rugged peaks and lush valleys. During the rainy season, from October to April, it is less busy but for obvious reasons, slightly wetter. Note: the trail is closed every February for cleaning and repair.

For a truly unique experience on the Inca Trail, try to depart two to three days before a full moon. According to the locals, the weather is best at this time and at night the Andean skyline is fully illuminated by the moonlight.

What to Bring

The trail involves rugged ascents and unpredictable mountain weather, so it is imperative that you be prepared with the proper equipment. Be sure to pack strong footwear, rain gear and warm clothing, in addition to food, water (no plastic water bottles are allowed, canteens only), water purification, insect repellent, plastic bags, a torch, durable sleeping bag, tent and stove.

What to expect

The popular 4 day trek will take you along the ancient stone Inca highway, past dozens of archaeological sights, rushing rivers and uncountable views of the cloud forest and eye-captivating mountain scenery. Along this 43-kilometer trek, you will tackle three formidable mountain passes and cruise to a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters. The trek begins at Qorihuayrachina near Ollantaytambo, often referred to as Km. 88 of the Cusco railway.

Another, slightly less intense version of the classic four-day trek is also growing in popularity. The two-day version, referred to as the Camino Sagrado del Inca, or "Sacred Trail," is a good alternative for time-pressed or fitness-deficient individuals. Along this journey you'll reach a maximum altitude of only 2,750 meters, which involve less arduous ascents, yet still leads to the wondrous mountain-mecca, Machu Picchu.

This mini-trek begins at Km. 104, just 14 kilometers away from the ruins, and groups spend the night near the ruins of Wiñay Wayna before departing at sunrise for the gates of Machu Picchu. However, if you're looking for divine mountain scenery, then the four-day trek is your best bet, as most of the best views and ruins are not included in the two-day tour.