What To Bring For The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an incredible experience for lovers of nature and adventure. This route will transport you to a new world, where you will exchange the noise of the city for the beautiful songs of birds and the most beautiful landscapes you can imagine.

However, undertaking this trek is no easy task, especially for those who are not accustomed to regular physical exercise. Knowing what to take on the Inca Trail is essential, as the Inca Trail ascends to over 4,000 meters above sea level in some areas, so certain precautions must be taken.

Being prepared to traverse this Inca route is necessary to fully enjoy all the wonders you will find along the way.

ABOUT CLOTHING

Choosing the right clothing for visiting Machu Picchu is essential to enjoy the experience without discomfort. The weather can change in minutes, so it's best to wear lightweight, waterproof, and quick-drying layers, along with comfortable shoes with good grip. Dressing in layers will help you adapt easily to the altitude, sun, and Andean breeze.

No matter how many days you plan to walk, the truth is that you will move from one altitude to another, and this means that the weather will change as you progress. For this hike, it's advisable to wear comfortable clothes and bring only what’s necessary. Consider the following tips:

• A couple of comfortable tracksuits
• Trekking shoes with good grip and that have already been broken in.
• Waterproof clothing, as drizzles are common along the trail, and walking wet can be uncomfortable and may cause respiratory illnesses.
• Wide-brimmed hats, as the sun is stronger at higher altitudes, and UV rays are more intense. Pair this hat with good sunscreen.
• A small but warm blanket for the nights, as they are truly cold. Exploring the different climates and adapting to the altitudes is one of the many things to do in Inca territory.

ABOUT HEALTH

As you know, during the Inca Trail, you will pass altitudes over 13,123 feet or 4,000 meters above sea level. If you come from a country that is almost at sea level, you should take the following precautions:

• Take the first few days to acclimatize, to adapt to the altitude.
• Eat light and avoid heavy meals, as digestion at high altitudes is slower.
• Avoid physical exertion during your first days in Cusco.
• Always drink bottled water, which will help you stay hydrated.
• If you feel short of breath, take a rest.
• Also, if you feel any strange ailment, you MUST notify the guide (it is their duty to help you whenever you need it).
• Drink a coca leaf infusion when possible.
• Carrying coca candies will help you along the way.

ABOUT LUGGAGE

It is advisable to carry a backpack that you do not detach from during the walk. It should contain only a few things, just the essentials. Here are the recommendations:

• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Personal hygiene items
• Fresh fruits, candies, chocolates (good for accumulating energy).
• Cash
• Walking stick with rubber tip
• Flashlight and batteries
• Sunglasses, lip balm
• A camera
• Rechargeable battery