Machu Picchu – Inca Trail Trek (with hotel)

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness and preparation. Proper acclimatization, fitness training, and preparation can help make the trek more manageable and enjoyable.

Here are some key steps to help you get ready:

1. Cardiovascular Fitness: Engage in regular aerobic exercises like running, cycling, or swimming to build stamina.
2. Hiking Practice: Do long hikes with a loaded backpack to simulate trail conditions. Include hikes with elevation gain if possible.
3. Altitude Acclimatization: If possible, spend time at higher altitudes before your trek to help your body adjust to reduced oxygen levels.

Avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca Trail involves several strategies to help your body acclimate to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations:

Pre-Trek Preparation

1. Gradual Acclimatization: Spend a few days at intermediate altitudes (e.g., Cusco, which is about 11,000 feet/3,400 meters) before starting the trek to allow your body to adjust.

2. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the trek to stay well-hydrated.

During the Trek

1. Ascend Slowly: Gradual ascent helps your body acclimate better. Avoid rapid elevation gain.

2. Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking water regularly throughout the trek.

3. Eat Lightly: Consume high-carbohydrate meals that are easy to digest.

4. Rest Well: Allow time for rest and recovery, particularly at higher elevations.

5. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can dehydrate you and exacerbate altitude sickness.

Medication and Health

1. Consider Medication: Consult a doctor about medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) that can help prevent altitude sickness.

2. Know the Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If symptoms become severe, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Guided Approach

1. Follow Your Guide’s Advice: Experienced guides are trained to help manage altitude sickness and will adjust the itinerary if needed.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness and help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable trek.

For hiking the Inca Trail, there are no specific vaccinations required solely for the trek. However, it’s a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider some additional health precautions based on the region. It’s best to check with your local health authority.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip’s receipt of credit card statements with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.