Inca Trail Elevation - The Ups And Downs To Machu Picchu The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (also known as Camino Inca or Camino Inka) is a hiking trail in Peru that terminates at Machu Picchu. Trekkers normally take four or five days to complete the "Classic Inca Trail" but a two-day trek from Km 104 is also possible. Climb out of the Sacred Valley towards Warmiwanusca, or Dead Woman's Pass, on the second day of the classic Inca Trail 4-day. Temperatures at night are also less chilly. The Fejos team named the site, and uncovered the remainder. G Adventures minimum is 12 years old) . If you are a little older in years and need some inspiration, then Alan Goldin is the oldest recorded hiker of the Trail at the age of 84, whilst three of our local porters were 62! The third and fourth day of the Inca Trail altitude change is a relative descent to Machu Picchu. You are however responsible for bringing your own sleeping bag, which can be stored within your 6kg duffel bag allowance. Instead, these are your best options: Flights | Fly into Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Perus capital city, and connect onto one of the frequent flights from Lima - Cusco run by several airlines. SAM Travel Peru: Outstanding Inca Trail 2023 - See 3,262 traveler reviews, 2,463 candid photos, and great deals for Cusco, Peru, at Tripadvisor. After celebrating your arrival to the top and snapping some photos, descend toward the Pacaymayo campsite (11,788 ft/3,590 m). Explorers will glimpse archaeological sites and a remarkable diversity of Andean landscapes, all building up to the final grand entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. INCA TRAIL ELEVATION - Daily Hike Gain From Easiest to Hardest We had always thought that hiking poles were only for old people and Austrians. The Classic Inca Trail is just a small portion of the 45000km network of Inca . Cusco stands at 3,200 metres and is already significantly higher than Machu Picchu itself, though many sections of the Inca Trail are much higher. Km 82, starting point of the Inca Trail. Inca Trail weather during the shoulder months is variable and it is common to experience all four seasons in one day. Its sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins. What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail, How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail, Can you do the Inca Trail without a guide, Do you need a permit to hike the Inca Trail. Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}131529S 721548W / 13.25806S 72.26333W / -13.25806; -72.26333, "Inca Trail" redirects here. This is one of Perus highest major cities with an altitude of 3400m (11,152ft). Some travel insurance policies do not cover adventure or high-elevation activities. On your first day of hiking the Inca Trail, you will typically embark from the KM82 route. As a result, advance booking is mandatory. Despite only including one day of hiking, this shorter hike is referred to as the 2-day Inca Trail because the hike to Machu Picchu is on Day 1 and the Machu Picchu tour is on Day 2. Youll have to carry your pack for 4 days so only take the lightweight essentials. Chachabamba: 6,725 ft (2,050 m) It is closed in February for maintenance. Theyre easily my picj for the best Inca Trail tour. From May to September The days are sunny and the nights are very cold. Next, the Sayaqmarka ("steep-place town") is reached followed by the tampu Qunchamarka. 1. Remember that batteries deplete faster at higher elevations. As the above has hopefully made clear, the Inca Trail is not as difficult or challenging as you may think, but every persons own hike experience will be very subjective based on your fitness, hiking experience, your groups approach, attitude, the weather conditions on the route, and a bunch of other factors. There is a bus which runs from Lima to Cusco, but it takes 24 hours and these days isnt worth taking as flights are so ubiquitous and affordable (trust us, we did this bus ride back in 2015!). You can easily spend hours on end walking up and around the magnificent ruins. Even before passing through the tunnel there are views down to the Willkanuta River, the first since leaving the river at Patallaqta. We went in July and the temperatures were great with a bit of rain on day 2. Tours are slightly cheaper and easier to book with only a few weeks notice (a guy on our tour booked his place only a week before the trip began). Highest Point on Inca Trail: Peru Day Seven - Tori Pines Travels We do not represent World Nomads. Hiking poles will aid you in steep areas. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at Wiay Wayna. Difficulty | High, this is the hardest day of walking but after you reach DWP, its mostly downhill. Trekking on the High Inca Trail | Exodus Travels Reaching the crest of this ridge reveals the grandeur of the ruins of Machu Picchu, which lie below. 30 miles (49 km), Highest Elevation: Throughout day 3 youll also see several mini Machu Picchu-like ruins spread throughout the trail. Inca trail preparation: a complete guide [updated 2020] - Career Gappers Parque Arqueologic National de Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will visit Runkurakay, a circular complex that scholars believe Inca messengers used as a refueling and resting station. Do note that if you see a tour with fewer days offered, then you are only going to be hiking a small section of the route. Each porter should be tipped around 30-40 soles (about $10-$15) for the entire group. Regardless of which option you go for, all roads will lead to Cusco - the start point for the vast majority of all Inca Trail tours. they soon adjusted and had no issues by day one of the hike itself. . The intricate detail that the Incans put into each and every stone structure is mesmerizing. Tipping is not mandatory, and you are entitled to put in more, less, or nothing at all. Instead, view the Inca Trail as your challenge, your motivation, and your deadline to start walking more, to lose some weight, and to make some positive changes before you fly to Peru (and if you need some inspiration, read this womans story). Your campsite is located just a few minutes from this archaeological site, famed for its steep and towering agricultural terraces that overlook the Urubamba River. We did the trek with G Adventures, a global company focused on sustainable small-group adventures (who have also been awarded Best Inca Trail Tour Operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco in Peru) - you can check out the specific tour we did by clicking here. At the beginning of the hike the morning mountain air is likely to be cool, however you will warm up as you continue your journey to Machu Picchu. If you have any doubts about whether you are covered for hiking the Inca Trail, speak with your insurance company. The less you have to carry, the more enjoyable the experience. If your budget is a little higher, or youd prefer a longer organised tour in Peru, they also offer a 14-day National Geographic Iconic Peru tour which includes the Inca Trail, the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, and return flights from Lima - Cusco. Its worth noting that not all standard off-the-shelf travel insurance policies will cover you for activities at altitude (including the Inca Trail), so you need to ensure that this is covered when buying your single or multi-trip policy. Weve tested the Geopressrigorouslyfrom the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Cuba, and the results are in: it WORKS. Home Blog The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The first day is a relatively easy hike and goes past the ruins of Patallaqta, which means town on a hillside in the Incan language of Quechua. Overview. High probability of sunny weather. Porters are instead responsible for carrying the tents, cooking supplies, food and additional camping equipment necessary along the trail. The highest point of the Inca Trail is Dead Woman's Pass, which reaches 4,200m above sea level Mental preparation for the Inca Trail. Peru has two seasons - dry and wet - and it is possible to do the Inca Trail in either. This is one area where the tour companies could provide a better solution, although we appreciate our situation as travel photographers and bloggers who carry a lot of technology is a little unique. The trail is closed in February for annual maintenance, conservation, and clean-up. The highest point of the trail is Dead Women's Pass at just over 4200m. If you don't, altitude sickness could make your first few days pretty uncomfortable. At the small village Wayllapampa ("grassy plain", Wayllabamba) the trail intersects with the "Mollepata Trail" at 3,000 metres (9,800ft).[3]. Get insured. Make sure to pack your original passport. Note that the Inca Trail is closed in February for everyone in order to allow it to replenish. It stands at 4,215 m. It's easy to get the impression that the name comes from some tragic story of someone that didn't quite make it to where they were going.. On the first day, you will also pass the lowest elevation on the Inca Trail known as the Llactapata/Patallacta Ruins at an elevation of 2,250m (7,382 ft). Some campsites have on-site restrooms and showers, however, these are not well maintained. All rights reserved. The trail reaches the pass at an elevation of 3950m. The trail continues through high cloud forest, undulating, sometimes steeply while affording increasingly dramatic viewpoints of mountains and dropoffs. The trekking team will wake you before sunrise to ensure that you arrive at Machu Picchus Sun Gate by mid-morning. New York, NY:Dutton. You will also benefit from training your legs to walk/hike on stairways or steep slopes. Inca Trail Distance: Note in the sectional view of the trail map that Abra de Warmiwanusca is the highest point in the trek with an elevation of 13,795 feet (4,205 meters). It was not just the distance that made the Inca routes challenging, but also the extreme altitude that may be encountered at various points. A short downhill walk is the final section of the trail.[11]. There are no ATMs along the way. If youll be taking an Inca Trail tour in rainy season, a little more spontaneity is possible, unless you have very specific dates in mind where it makes sense to get your booking in sooner rather than later. Because of previous damage caused by hooves, pack animals are not allowed on the remainder of the trail. Potatoes, maize, fruit, and sweet potato were grown here. Inca Trail tours cost from 550 per person up to 1,500; if you see a price any cheaper than the bottom-end of this range, then be very sceptical. Torre Mirador is 12.5 mi (20 km) to the north of Nazca city along the Panamerican Highway. Two groups of major architectural structures, a lower and upper, are set among multiple agricultural terraces at this concave mountainside site. Group porters carry tents, cooking equipment, portable restrooms, and other communal items. are 500 permits available, approximately 200 allocated to tourists and 300 to guides, porters, and cooks. The Inca Trail, How Long Is It? | Andean Trails The name Phuyupatamarka ("cloud-level town") (phoo-yoo-patta-marka) is applied to both the campground, and the ruins. The maximum trekking group size generally varies between 8 to 12 trekkers plus the trekking team. I think doing the gruelling 4-day hike on the Inca Trail really gave us a greater appreciation for the ruins once we got there. A maximum of 500 people are allowed on the trail each day, of which only 200 are trekkers, the rest being guides and porters. We told you that these guys were absolute heroes. Hiking the Inca Trail is challenging due to the high elevation (maximum 13,828 ft/4,215 m) and steep stone steps in some parts. You will start the day with a steep ascent up Dead Womans Pass. Cusco is exceptionally easy to reach from various parts of Peru, but there are no direct flights to Cusco from the US, Canada or Europe. As with other sites that were being degraded due to overuse, camping is no longer allowed. New operators are added to the list each year so, as you can imagine, quality, experience, and equipment offered will vary quite a lot. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Along Dusty Roads is a travel blog by British couple, Andrew & Emily. On our last night, we even got a buffet! If you need to pay for an additional porter to lighten your load and carry some of your things, you can do that for around $50-$100 USD. Immediately after the pass, we descend into the Pacaymayo valley (3600m/11808ft), from which we then start to climb to the second pass, the Abra Runkurakay . Although all hikes are more about the journey than a final destination, the Inca Trail stands out as having a destination to beat all others. Rise early for the first day of your trek. The High Inca Trail covers everything the classic Inca Trail does. This system is still in effect; any person wishing to hike the Inca Trail must obtain a permit beforehand. The Trail is Peru in a microcosm; lush green cloud forest alive with birds, Andean peaks and steep mountain passes, a landscape dotted with centuries old ruins, accessible only to those that follow this most famous pathway. If you do decide to go to Peru for the hike or just to see Machu Picchu, I recommend you brush up on some basic Spanish travel phrases. Personally, we had some really difficult moments on Day One and Two on the climbs, but the rest of the hike was at the right level of satisfyingly challenging. Looking for the best hiking trails in Jakarta? Besides dealing with high elevation, your general fitness and previous trekking experience will also contribute to your level of enjoyment. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. A common misconception about the Inca Trail is that it will allow you to be amongst the first people into Machu Picchu - this simply isnt true as its much easier to get through its gates just after opening if you stay in Aguas Calientes the night before and hike or take the bus up. I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. If you plan on renting the sleeping bag and air-mattress, then just bear in mind that this will take up over 50% of your 6kgs allowance and also takes up most of the room available inside the duffel bag. The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your tour, but there are a few costs along the way for which youll need to bring cash: Toilet entry fees (usually 1 sol, 2 soles at Machu Picchu). Direccion Regional de Cultura Cuzco. In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travellers in South America. Because of this rule, permits can only be obtained through a government registered tour operator. At the very least, you will find it difficult to breathe as the air becomes thinner higher up. The most visitors the park allows is 500 a day and that includes guides and porters which make up over half that number. Temperatures really drop at higher elevation when the sun sets. However, using them is guaranteed make the hike easier for a number of people and result in fewer aches and pains during and post-Trail. Alternatively, this highly rated four-day Inca Trail tour has loads of excellent reviews, allows free cancellation), and is even cheaper than the above tour meaning its a good option for those on a tighter budget. Be prepared with a rain jacket or poncho and pants made of quick-drying synthetic material. Highest point of the Inca Trail. Before leaving, I had heard horror stories about the difficulty of the hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In all my experiences traveling and adventuring, the hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail still stands as my most spectacular. These ruins are at an altitude of 3750m (12,300ft). 10 The Highest Point On The Inca Trail. Distance: 32 miles (51 km) Highest elevation: Salkantay Pass, 15,090 feet (4,600 m) Difficulty: moderate-challenging. Pack thermal undergarments, a warm hat, and gloves for evenings. This is where your campsite is located. Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek: Which Hike to Machu Picchu is Better Despite her eagerness to carry on, she could barely hobble her way forward without needing assistance. However, there are a few key things to know about how luggage and kit is transported on the hike before you even think about whether you really need that extra pair of pants. Please consult your Travel Advisor with specific questions regarding trekking equipment and rental options during your Inca Trail trekking experience. There are no hotels on the Inca Trail and your only available accommodation comes in the form of a tent and a sleeping bag in the middle of nature. There are amazing hostels in Cuscothat offer a comfy bed so you can start the next day well-rested and read to go. The trail continues to ascend, passing a small lake named Quchapata (Cochapata)[6] in an area that is recognized as deer habitat. Although it wasnt by any stretch the most physically challenging hike weve done in South America, its ascents and conditions provided enough of a task to make us both feel it. At this point, the trail reaches 13,828 ft (4,215 m) in elevation.This pass is so named, as from below it is said to resemble a womans supine body. The good news is that its a lot shorter than you may expect at only 40 kms (25 miles). Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 30 days prior to arrival with open dates. For your main and assistant guide, 25 - 50 soles for the former and 10 - 25 soles for the latter is advised per hiker. The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). For those that would prefer more privacy, you can also pay extra for your own one-man tent. Ive hiked some of the best national parks in the U.S.and this Inca Trail hike is still my favorite in terms of scenery and complete awesomeness. full details on whats included in G Adventures Inca Trail Tour here, 11 Things To Know Before You Visit Rainbow Mountain in Peru, 13 Wonderful Things To Do in Cusco | The Gateway to the Sacred Valley, A Guide to Visiting to Pisac, Peru | The Ruins + Market, The Boleto Turistico | Everything You Need To Know About Cusco's Tourist Ticket, The Inca Trail Packing List | What You Need to Bring in 2023, A Short Guide to Ollantaytambo | Peru's Train Ride Town, (Updated 2022) A Guide to Huaraz | Peru's Hiking Capital, Seven of the Best Day Trips From Cusco | Ruins, Mountains and Pretty Little Towns. Take some time to relish in your accomplishment before accompanying your guide to the Machu Picchu bus stop for your transfer down the mountain to Aguas Calientes. The second day ascends over Dead Woman's pass- the highest point on the Inca Trail at 4,200 metres. Keep that in mind as you will need good long-range planning to make sure your spot is reserved. You can read more about altitude sickness in the Health + Safety section towards the bottom of this post. Inca Trail altitude We recommend going with Cachi Life as they are doing really great work in Peru that goes well beyond the Inca Trail hike. Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. You can see full details on whats included in G Adventures Inca Trail Tour here. Hiking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Day-by-Day Itinerary for Trekking the Inca Trail (4 Days/3 Nights), Finding the Best Inca Trail Tour Operator. Cuscos high altitude makes it a convenient place to acclimatize. Lets go! The entire 4-day trail hike is only 25 miles (40 km). Instead, your trekking team will bring a portable toilet that will be set up during lunch and at each campsite. The 10 Best Treks in Peru: The Inca Trail and Beyond - Inca Expert Day Two of the hike, which leads you from your campsite all the way upto the Dead Womans Pass at 4,200 metres (13,776 ft) is widely regarded as the most difficult day of hiking - once youre passed that, youll be laughing (or crying). You would be greatly remiss if you do not visit Machu Picchu at some point in your life. Let your guide know if you are struggling and especially if your symptoms get worse. High probability of rain on any given day. First, make sure to book your tour on the Inca Trail well in advance as the tours sell out quickly and you can only go with a tour group or private certified guide. From the top of Dead Womans Pass, you will descend about 2.5km (1.6 miles) down a steep gradient into the Pacaymayo Valley. We paid at the lower end as my wife is Colombian and we found a tour operator that catered more to the Spanish speaking South American clientele. On the last day, you will wake up before dawn at an absurdly early hour (our wake up call was 3 A.M.) in order to reach the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu just in time for sunrise. Im sure you hear this often, but to be honest, it really is nothing like being there in person and seeing it up close and personal. Yes, the dreaded Dead Woman's Pass. SAM Travel Peru: Inca trail 4D/3N - See 3,255 traveler reviews, 2,451 candid photos, and great deals for Cusco, Peru, at Tripadvisor. Consult your Travel Advisor if you require a guide who speaks a different language. The vital stats. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! This trek additionally permits hikers to enter Machu Picchu through its Sun Gate. Hiking Peru's Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Altitude, Distances Its required to begin the Inca Trail and to visit Machu Picchu. Both the 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail treks have distinct advantages and disadvantages. The Classic Inca Trail is easily the most famous trek in South America. The food was fantastic throughout the trip. This steep ascent reaches 4,215m (13,829ft) above sea level. The Inca Trail in Peru, South America - G Adventures As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. Porters carry all the equipment. The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 19,342 feet (5,895 meters), while the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail Route is 13,828 feet (4,215 meters). Likewise, if you would prefer not to carry your sleeping bag from home to Peru, you can rent one from your trekking company with advance notice. ), but after your time on the Trail you will be left in no doubt that those porters deserve an extra bit of cash to recognise their sterling work and to support their own endeavours in life. Day Three: Early rise to hike the most photogenic section of the Trail. clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, toiletries). Nope, and this is one of the best things about it. Physically prepare by training at home in the months leading up to your trip.
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