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Published: October 21st 2017
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Ready to go
That is a porter from another company in the background. They wear different colours depending which company they work for. The Classic Inca Trail – before you go!
So, I am not the most organised traveler - in terms of, I like to turn up and see what I find rather than have my whole trip pre-planned. I like a little room for manoeuvre! Too much research sometimes plants too many preconceptions in my head!
When it came to Machu Picchu, I basically thought that the way to get there was via the Inca Trail, so that is what I signed up for! In actual fact there are many many ways to get there, including by coach, by one day trails, two day trails, and seven day treks! The Inca Trail is the classic and most historical of trails, following in the path of the Incan people on their religious journey.
I signed up for the Inca Trail in December for a March start - there are limited permits each year and they often run out fast. The trail is also closed throughout February to give it a break. So basically I signed up and then in March set off for Peru....had I done some research, here is a list of things that I might
have liked to know before hand!
A four day, three night trek in the Andes, arriving at Machu Picchu on the last day. Perfect!
So here’s what I hadn’t read about…
• It’s not a gentle stroll
• Altitude definitely has an effect on how hard it feels.
• Day two is a tough one reaching 4250m!
• Wayna Picchu – the climb!
Don’t let this put you off, just be prepared! We had all levels of ability in our group of eight, and everyone made it to Machu Picchu. It's just good to be prepared for a physically demanding few days. Of course if you have a good guide, then the pace will be well set.
Here’s what to bring:
• Layers – you’ll be cold at night and in the morning, then you’ll be stripping off layers as you start hiking and getting warm. Layers are the key!
• Toilet paper – there is none
• Hand sanitiser – useful!
• Head torch – mine was hand held but the head ones are much better - especially on the last day as you set out before dawn.
• Socks for each day. Clothes
can be recycled but treat your feet well. Proper hiking socks are best.
• Refillable water bottle - stay hydrated, especially at altitude.
• Waterproof - you never know when you will be caught out!
• Rain cover for your backpack - there is nothing worse that going to change into warm clean clothes...to find that they are cold and damp!
• Poles - these are completely optional and your tour company will probably offer them for hire - they must have rubber ends, not metal.
• Good hiking shoes - break them in before you go - blisters would not make this fun!
• Camera & charged batteries - there is nowhere to charge up!
• Mostly...pack light! Leave your big bags in Cusco, and pack light - you'll probably have the porters to carry your spare clothes, but otherwise what you take you'll carry so have a comfy backpack.
• Sun cream & sunglasses
More about the Inca trail itself to come….
JHG
@greavesjen
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Kathy Greaves
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Good advice!