We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about what to expect while hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If your questions are not answered here, please feel free to contact us at info@boletomachupicchu.com.

• Do I really need to book the Inca Trail in advance?
• When is the best time to travel the Inca Trail?
• Can children walk the Inca Trail?
• Do I need a great physique to walk the Inca Trail?
• I am worried about being too slow for my group
• What happens if I get sick and need to go back?
• What do we do with the water on the hike?
• How are the porters treated on the trek that I book through “www.ticketmachupicchu.com”?
• Once I booked, can I change my departure date?
• Where do I keep my bags while I am trekking?
• Are there many bathrooms on the Inca Trail?

Turists in Machu Picchu

Do I really need to book the Inca Trail in advance?

Permits for the Inca Trail are very limited, there are only 500 entries per day of which 300 will be used by the trekking teams, cooks, porters and guides, this makes you must book many months in advance if you want to secure a place; we recommend you to do it six months in advance. However, if you want to come during the high season (May to September) you should make your reservation 8 to 10 months in advance.

When is the best time to travel the Inca Trail?

The high season on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is from May to September, due to the fact that this time coincides with the vacations in the western hemisphere. These months probably offer the best trekking conditions with dry and sunny weather. However as we said before you will need to book permits many months in advance. April, October and November are also great months to hike the Inca Trail; there are fewer hikers, although there is a chance of at least one day of rain during the trek.

It is also easier to find available permits although they must still be booked months in advance. The rainy season runs from January to March, and if you decide to come during this time, expect some frequent showers. However, it is perfectly safe to hike, with the right – waterproof – equipment. Again, it is much easier to get permits to hike the Inca Trail at this time of year.

The Inca Trail closes during the month of February every year, due to the fact that it is the rainiest month of the year, and is used for maintenance for the conservation of the trails on the trail. However, all alternative routes are open during this month.

Natural scenery of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Can children walk the Inca Trail?

Children used to walking can do the Inca Trail, although we personally believe that to enjoy a route like this they should be at least 12 years old. But we have witnessed younger children completing the trek. If you would like to do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu as a family, please contact us to discuss your children’s fitness in more detail.

Do I need a great physique to walk the Inca Trail?

It is recommended that you have a good level of fitness, however, you do not have to be an exercise fanatic. If you are out of shape, it would be a very good idea to start regular walking training (uphill) a few months before your adventure.

One of the biggest challenges about trekking in Peru is the altitude; the highest pass on the Inca Trail is at 4,125, at Dead Woman’s Pass. To help you acclimatize and avoid the symptoms of altitude sickness, we recommend the following:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Coca tea is an ancient ancestral remedy.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and agitation upon arrival in Cusco.
• Avoid sleeping pills.
• Dedicate 2 to 3 days to acclimatize before starting your trek.

I am worried about being too slow for my group

The Inca Trail hike is considered among the best in the world and if you want to enjoy it, don’t see it as a race. “Go at your own pace”, enjoy the views, take pictures and catch your breath. Even the most leisurely hikers reach the camping areas before sunset.

The guide will always go with the last person in the group, giving instructions to the faster walkers, so that they know where the stopping and meeting points are along the route.

Hiker on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

What happens if I get sick and need to go back?

This does not happen very often; however, if it does, our guides are very experienced and know how to act in case of any emergency or unforeseen event; they will do everything possible to help you complete your hike. In addition, first aid kits and oxygen tanks are carried for emergencies. However, should you become seriously ill and need to return to Cusco, you will be treated quickly and arrangements will be made for you.

What do we do with the water on the hike?

Boiled water is provided from the second day of the trek. You will need to bring reusable water bottles with you, as the water is sterilized by the cook every morning and afternoon. On the first day you can buy water bottles on the trail.

How are the porters treated on the trek that I book through “www.ticketmachupicchu.com”?

The porters, who are natives of the places you will be trekking, have orthopedic backpacks, trekking shoes and all the necessary equipment to facilitate their work. They eat the same food as the hikers, although separately. Their weight limit is 18 kg and this applies during the whole trek.

Once I booked, can I change my departure date?

No, unfortunately, once your reservation is confirmed, we cannot change your trekking date or refund your permit; this is why you should be very sure of the dates for which you book your trek.

Where do I keep my bags while I am trekking?

All hostels and hotels in Cusco will allow you to leave your luggage while you go trekking. Remember to take your passport with you; also remember that you will not need valuables during your trek.

Are there many bathrooms on the Inca Trail?

There are several restrooms along the way, some have toilets, but most of them are of the “squatting” variety. They may not be the most hygienic, but try to use them instead of nature, remember you are in one of the most amazing natural environments in the world. Please bring toilet paper with you. When you are at your camp, you will have a toilet tent that will be just for your group.

Advice from people who have been there

Inca Trail

By: Carla M.

“An unforgettable experience“

“The road is long and intense, it is quite difficult, but the scenery you see throughout the journey and the Inca constructions are worth all the effort to get there. Once you see Machu Picchu from the sun gate, you have met the challenge. Everyone should do this hike sometime in their life.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, July 26, 2024