Machu Picchu Trail: Know Before You Go

The Machu Picchu trail is one of the most beautiful, breathtaking hiking tours you will ever experience. Get the most out of your adventure by going in well prepared so you don’t miss a thing!

Some of What You’ll Need for the Machu Picchu Trail

Physical Training

The hike to Machu Picchu is beautiful and inspiring, but quite demanding. If you’re not in shape, you may want to spend some time preparing your body so you can focus on the sites, not the soreness. An uphill treadmill is good walking exercise, and downhills will help build your knees for the journey. Don’t forget that we offer tours of varying levels of intensity, too!

Boots

Good, comfortable, high-top hiking boots are essential. As with any quality footwear, they may require some break-in time. Be sure they have solid soles for the rugged terrain. You may also want to bring some comfortable shoes to wear in camp, to give your feet and boots a rest.

Clothing

The trip covers a variety of climates, so be prepared for all seasons. Bring t-shirts and hiking pants for the warm days, plus undergarments and quality hiking socks. Warm gloves can be handy for the chilly mountain heights, and a down-filled jacket is a must on the cold nights.

Camping

Alpaca Expeditions offers high-quality tents, mats, sleeping bags, walking sticks, and more. You will also need water storage for the hikes each day, enough for 2-3 liters. A Camelbak is recommended, but other water bottles can be used. Most of your belongings are carried by porters in the provided duffel, but you need to carry a small day bag. A headlamp, toothbrush and paste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper are also suggested.

Weather

The weather is always unpredictable. Be prepared for heat, cold, rain, or dry. Depending on where you are on the trek, the days may be warm, but the nights are usually quite cold, and rain is always a possibility. Be sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho, rain pants, waterproof gloves, a wool hat for chilly days and a sun hat for the warm ones.

Hazards

The trails will expose you to typical outdoor hazards of sun, insects, and injuries. Sunscreen, bug spray and a small first aid kit with some bandages and gauze are handy in the event of a small incident.

The Machu Picchu trail is one that you will never forget, and we’re here to help make sure it’s an enjoyable trip. Get in touch today for a trek that will surely take you back in history and give you a chance to learn about the Americas’ oldest city.