The Facts
Inclusions
All meals, camping equipment, entry fees, transfers (minibus, bus and train), English speaking guide, porters and cook.

Equipment and facilities
All equipment is supplied for camping (except sleeping bags) and cooking. Facilities while camping are basic (shower on the last night and some toilets). See section below for more details.

Accommodation & meals
3 nights camping (two person tents) with all meals provided.

Group size
The group size will vary depending on demand. You will be accompanied by a qualified guide, as per INC regulations.

Extras
Please budget for drinks (i.e. soft drinks, bottled water and alcohol), tips and lunch in Aguas Calientes on day 4.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
You are responsible for travelling with the passport your permit was booked with. Should your passport be lost or stolen, you must buy a new permit to match the details on your replacement passport. You will not be permitted to trek the Inca Trail unless you have a permit which matches your passport details exactly.

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 Closure of the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is usually closed once a year for a month (around February) for a clean up. During this time we offer the alternative Lares Valley Trek which also culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu. Please see our Lares Valley information sheet for details.

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 Inca Trail Trek Itinerary
Day 1, Ollantaytambo – Piskacucho (Km 82) – Wayllambamba
Your Inca Trail trekking guide will hold a briefing in your hotel the evening before the trek starts. This briefing will give you more information about the route and equipment you need to bring. You will also receive your duffel bag (to be carried by the porters) which must not weigh more than 5kg. If you are leaving from Cuzco, there will be an early start (around 7am) to travel by bus (with the trek guide and porters) to Km 82 (2,680m) – the start of the Inca Trail. There will be a short stop at Ollantaytambo to use toilets and buy walking sticks, water and last minute snacks. If you have spent the night in Ollantaytambo it is just a short drive to Km 82. Day 1 consists of a relatively easy, reasonably flat 4½ hour 10-12km walk. Depending on the walking speed of the group camp is usually made at Hatunchaca or Wayllabamba (approx 3,000m).

Day 2, Warmiwañusca – Pacamayo
Rising early (around 6am), today begins with a gradual ascent covering around 2km, followed by a challenging 7km constant uphill hike (on dirt tracks and stone steps) to reach the highest pass at Warmiwañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ (4,200m). The views of the mountains and valleys are spectacular as you make your way slowly towards the pass. This section is the most demanding of the whole trail and reaching Dead Woman’s Pass is quite an achievement. However it is not technically difficult and can be completed by anyone of any age who leads a reasonably active life. It is very important to take this section entirely at your own pace. Usually the first people in the group to reach the pass will wait for the rest of the group to finish so celebratory group photos can be taken. The pass offers fantastic views of the surrounding snow capped peaks and a wonderful feeling of being ‘on top of the world’! After the high pass it’s a further 3km downhill, winding along old Inca stairs to the campsite (3,600m).

Day 3, Runkurakay – Winay Wayna
Day 3 begins with another early start (6am) and a gradual 2km uphill hike to the second high pass, Runkurakay (3,950m). Again the pass affords excellent views of the magnificent Andes. Most of the next 6km is downhill and we have a chance to explore the fascinating ruins of Sayacmarca. The scenery becomes more lush as we continue towards the third high pass at Phuyupatamarca (3,580m). From here we have a further 5km downhill to reach the final campsite at Winay Wayna (2,650m). Although downhill most of the way, this section has many steps as the path winds around the side of the mountain and can be demanding on your legs – particularly if you are stiff from the climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass! The camp at Winay Wayna is a welcome sight and your efforts can be rewarded with a cold beer and a shower.

Day 4, Intipunku – Machu Picchu – Cuzco
On the last morning we rise before dawn (4am) to begin the final section of the trail to the famous ‘Sun Gate’ (Intipunku) and on to Machu Picchu. After a light breakfast you will say goodbye to your porters as they pack up the camping equipment and head back to Cuzco.

Although we are continuing to descend, this section is a combination of steps – both up and down! Affectionately known as “Inca flat” by the guides, there is actually nothing flat about it and it can be tiring! It is approx 4km from Winay Wayna to the Sun Gate and the final push includes a set of steep Inca stairs – which will almost certainly take your breath away before your first sight of the famous city! At 2,745m, the Sun Gate is 345 metres higher than Machu Picchu and, on a clear day, affords a majestic view down over the sight and the surrounding valleys. From the Sun
Gate, there is a final 2km downhill walk to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Reaching the site around 7am, your guide will take you on a full guided tour. You will then have plenty of free time to explore this mystical Inca city, perhaps climb the towering Huayna Picchu (Young Mountain) which overlooks the site or visit the Inca Bridge. Returning to Aguas Calientes by bus you may decide to have lunch in one of the many restaurants (not included), soak in the nearby hot springs or meander through the markets. We then catch the late afternoon train back to Cuzco arriving mid-evening.

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What you need to know
Hiking the Inca Trail
The trail itself involves approximately three days of walking. It is led by a guide and assistant guide(s) – one of whom will stay at the front and another at the back with the last person (you may have several assistant guides if your group is large). Therefore faster people do not have to wait and slower people do not feel they are holding anyone up. Groups tend to spread out naturally along the track and there are no prizes for being first and no shame in being the last.

Unlike climbing to the summit of a mountain, this trek is undulating and there are even (a few) flat sections. What this does mean is that on some days (particularly on day 2 up to the highest pass – ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ at 4,200m) it can be a hard going (seemingly never ending!) uphill slog. Naturally the uphills are countered by some prolonged downhill sections and this can be even tougher on the legs.

It is important to remember that the trail is not three solid days of challenging trekking, rather it is varied and the difficulty level can change two or three times within the same day. The most imperative factor in tackling the trail is to take it slowly (try to take small, shuffling steps), walk at your own pace (this is vital) and remember that it is not a race! Drink plenty of water and take breathers often (buy a cheap walking stick in Ollantaytambo and lean on it rather than sitting down). Those who charge into every uphill section and want to be the first at every pass will find the trail the toughest.

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Fitness
The trail is certainly not easy but you DO NOT need to be an athlete or a trekking expert to complete it. Fitness is naturally important but it is the kind of trek that anyone with a positive attitude and determination can do. However the more fit you are the more you will enjoy the trail and the more chance you will have to take in the scenery and appreciate the Inca ruins dotted along the way. If you do not exercise regularly, it is advisable to do some extra walking or some kind of aerobic activity in the months leading up to your trip.

Many people worry whether they will be able to cope physically but complete failure is rare and would usually only result from severe altitude sickness or a person lacking even a basic level of fitness. People of all ages (from teenager to pensioner) complete the trek and age itself is no barrier if you are positive minded and live an active lifestyle.

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Altitude
Altitude can affect anyone at moderate to high altitude (generally anything over 3,000 metres). Altitude sickness is caused by the lack of oxygen which can be up to a third less than at sea level. No one understands why some people are affected and others not and age, level of fitness and strength is no indication of how well you will fare. Be aware that altitude sickness can be serious, so if your guide advises you to rest or descend, please do as instructed. As the Inca Trail is a mixture of ascents and descents, altitude sickness is often short term and suffering from it does not necessarily mean you will be unable to complete the trek. Drugs are available to combat the effects of altitude sickness, for more information please contact your doctor.

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Staff & Support
The trek will be led by an experienced guide with extensive local historical and archaeological knowledge. You will pass many Inca ruins along the way and your guide will conduct short tours wherever it is possible to do so. A team of porters will carry all equipment leaving you with just a small daypack to carry. The cook will prepare three meals a day (while camping) plus provide hot drinks and snacks.

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Equipment & Campsites
All camping gear (tents are two person) and cooking equipment is supplied (except sleeping bags). Each day the porters will overtake the group to arrive in camp well in advance. This gives them plenty of time to set up camp and start to prepare dinner. Tents are two person A-frame style and there is a communal dining tent for eating and staying dry – if it rains. Sleeping mats are provided and these will be laid out in the tents by the porters. When you get into camp you will be able to collect your duffle bag and access your clothes/toiletries. The porters usually also provide a small bowl of warm water, soap and a small flannel / towel for every person to wash their hands when reaching camp and each morning. Campfires are not permitted so there is not a lot to do after dinner and most people retire to bed early. Please note that campsites are subject to change depending on availability. You will be advised at the Inca Trail briefing of the exact campsites you will be staying at.

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Toilets & Showers
There are toilet blocks (with ceramic squat toilets) dotted along the trail. These little blocks are usually well hidden from view and are surprisingly clean. Between these toilet blocks the only choice is to go ‘behind a bush’! Lunch stops are often made in the vicinity of a toilet block. Toilet blocks are usually available in camp on the second and third night. The location of camp on day one can vary and it is likely that you will have to use a toilet tent or the bush. Taking your own toilet roll is essential but it is important not to flush loo paper away. Showers are available at the campsite on day 3. Cold showers are free and hot showers (two for each sex) cost approx US$1.50. On this night all trekkers camp at the same place so demand for the showers can be high, however as everyone arrives into camp at different times in the afternoon you may be lucky and not have to queue for too long.

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Meals
The food provided by the porters and cook is nothing short of amazing. Trekkers can expect a breakfast of omelettes or pancakes, a ‘takeaway’ snack pack of fruit or chocolate to eat mid morning, a two course lunch of soup and meat with pasta or rice, afternoon tea on arrival at camp with biscuits and popcorn and a three course dinner. Breakfast and dinner is accompanied by hot drinks (tea, coffee, chocolate) and lunch usually by cordial (other drinks e.g. soft drinks or beer are at your own expense and can be pricey on the trail). All food is prepared, served and cleared away by the cook and porters and the quality of the meals is quite something when you consider that all the ingredients and basic cooking equipment has been carried in. Trekkers will certainly not go hungry and special dietary requirements can be catered for if specified in advance. You will be able to buy bottled water on day 1 and 2 of the trek at various points along the way, after this you will refill your empty bottles from boiled water provided by the porters. Boiled water will be provided during the trek when it is possible to make camp.

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Tipping
Your porters, guides and cooks have amazing strength, stamina and skill and generally make your trek a thoroughly enjoyable and hassle-free experience. Most people would almost certainly not be able to complete the trek without them. It is therefore commonly accepted that the standard combined tip for guides, porters and cooks on the Inca Trail is US$30 per trekker.

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Sleeping Bag
You will need a good warm sleeping bag for the Inca Trail trek. Where possible we recommend you bring your own sleeping bag, however adequate ones can be hired locally (for approx US$10) but we can take no responsibility for the standard. If you are planning to hire a bag it is a good idea to bring a silk sleeping bag liner to use inside for added warmth and comfort.

A four season* (or -10) bag is recommended for the winter months. At other times you will probably be fine in a 3 season (or -4/-5) bag although this depends on how much you feel the cold and is given as a guideline only. Roll mats are provided on the Inca Trail however for greater comfort and warmth, Thermorest style mattresses can also be hired in Cuzco for US$10.

*Please note: if you are travelling in winter and you do not wish to invest in a 4 season bag you may want to consider purchasing a 3 season bag plus a sleeping bag liner and bringing additional clothing.

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Weather
The weather in the Andes can be very unpredictable and you should be equipped for bad weather. Peru is located in the southern hemisphere meaning the winter extends from June to August. In the summer months daytime temperatures can be extremely hot & humid, but the nights can be very cold. During winter it can be cold during the day and particularly cold at night. It is usual to encounter some rain on the trail all year round so a poncho is ideal along with thermal underwear if you really feel the cold. (Cheap throw away ponchos which fit over everything including your day pack can be bought in Cuzco for approx US$1.)

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Footwear
Good quality, comfortable footwear is essential. Whatever you wear on your feet the most important thing is comfort. It is vital to ensure your boots are well worn in and lightweight. Ankle support and waterproofing is recommended but if you already have something comfortable with good grip on rocks then don’t go rushing out to buy new boots – you are better off with your well worn in pair!

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Luggage Storage & Load Limits
During the Inca Trail Trek your main luggage will be stored in Cuzco and you will receive a small duffle bag at your Inca Trail briefing (which will be held the evening before you start the trek) to pack clothes for 3-4 days. Your team of porters will carry these bags together with the food and equipment for the trail. Please note that you will not have access to these items until the end of each day as the porters will always be ahead of the group. You should therefore bring a day pack in which you can carry personal belongings such as your camera, water and sun screen etc. By Peruvian law the duffle bag must not weigh more than 5kg (10lbs) which is to include your sleeping bag - this limit is set to protect the health of porters and animals. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 5kg, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra amount together with your day pack.

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Packing Checklist

• PASSPORT – You MUST take your passport and a photocopy is not sufficient. (Keep it in a plastic bag in case of rain).
• SLEEPING BAG
• SILK SLEEPING BAG LINER – Especially recommended if you plan to hire a sleeping bag but can also give your own bag added warmth
• WATER PROOF CLOTHING - A plastic poncho is recommended and can be purchased easily for approx US$1.
• SMALL LIGHTWEIGHT UMBRELLA – Light umbrellas which pack away to almost nothing can be useful to keep away drizzle.
• WATERPROOF, WELL WORN IN WALKING BOOTS
• PLASTIC BAGS - to keep your belongings & clothes dry (wrap everything in plastic bags).
• TOILET PAPER - Most important! (Also small plastic bags for rubbish which can then be thrown in the main rubbish bag provided by the porters)
• SMALL TOWEL and basic personal toiletries.
• WATER BOTTLE – bring 1 large (1.5L) or 2/3 small water bottles which can be refilled on the trail with boiled water which will be supplied when possible.
• WARM CLOTHING FOR NIGHTS - Fleece, long pants, woollen hat, gloves
• THERMAL UNDERWEAR – If trekking in winter or you feel the cold
• WALKING CLOTHING IN LAYERS – e.g. zip off trousers, fleece, T-shirts
• PERSONAL MEDICATION & BASIC FIRST AID KIT - (Bandaids, Imodium, Panadol, rehydration sachets)
• CAMERA & SPARE FILM - Note: there are no electrical outlets on the Inca Trail so make sure you fully charge or/and have spare batteries!
• SNACKS - Chocolates, chips, biscuits, energy bars.
• TORCH (flash-light) - (Very Important) and spare batteries.
• SUNSCREEN, SUNGLASSES, SUN HAT
• TROPICAL STRENGTH INSECT REPELLENT
• ANTISEPTIC HAND GEL
• SWIMWEAR FOR AGUAS CALIENTES - (Towels can be hired there for 3 Soles).
• FLIP FLOPS/THONGS – If you wish to have a shower on the 3rd night. 
  

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Country Dossiers
This Inca Trail Information Sheet is designed to be read in conjunction with our Peru Country Dossier which you can download from our website or obtain from your booking agent. The Country Dossiers contain essential information about visas, arrival transfers, spending money & costs, taxes & tips, climate, local food etc.

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IMPORTANT INFO
It is very important that you check the Latest News section on our website before you travel. This page contains information about any natural disasters, political unrest, travel advice and regulation changes (e.g. Inca Trail permits) that may affect your tour.

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