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Last update: August 24, 2019

Recommendations - 4-day Inca Trail

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Generalities

It is necessary to arrive in Cusco at least the day before the trek because departures are very early in the morning, before the arrival of the first flights.
Do not organize anything for the day of the return of the trek, because the arrival in Cusco is late in the evening. Do not plan to take a bus or plane that day at the risk of missing it in case of delay.
Please notice that there are not public services on the trek (running tap water, sewage, electricity or telephones).

Health

The main problem a trekker might encounter is altitude sickness. The Inka Trail goes over 4000 m of altitude. Below you will find some elementary things to consider:

The best is to arrive at least two days before the trek so your body gets used to fonction properly in high altitude. Rest for at least 1 hour at your hotel upon arrival, walk slowly and don't hesitate to take a cab even for short distances.
We recommend to drink coca- leave infusions (mate de coca) upon arriving to Cuzco. Every public place and hotel have some and even some hotels give it to customers for free.
If you smoke, try to slow down a little bit.
Eat light, low fat meals or easy to digest food.
Tap water in most of Peru is potable, but the chemical and bacteriological content varies from place to place. To avoid problems, we recommend you to always drink bottled water.
During the Trek, walk calmly the first day, avoiding useless efforts.
Drink enough water during walks.
Do not hesitate to stop and get some rest if you feel the lack of oxygen.
Alert your guide if you feel sick. He is trained and will be able to help you or to take necessary measures.

What to bring

Original document.
Sleeping bag.
A medium backpack (40 liters) for the walks.
Walking sticks with rounded and rubber ends.
Camera and extra batteries, chargers and adapters.
Personal toilet items, most important are wet tissues because there are not showers or proper sanitary installations.
Personal medications kit (plasters, bands, cotton, alcohol, aspirins, pills for stomachache, medicine to avoid altitude sickness, contact lenses cleaner, etc.).
Mountain boots or hiking shoes.
A hat or cap.
Underware.
T-shirts.
Long-sleeved shirts.
Woollen gloves, scarves and socks.
Rain gear for the rainy season.
Long pants or slacks.
Sweaters and a jacket.
Towel and toilet paper.
Swimsuit (for Aguas Calientes hot springs - not included).
Insect repellent.
Sun screen Lotion.
Sun glasses.
A bottle of water and some purifying pills.
Dried fruit, candies and chocolate.
Headlamp and batteries.
Binoculars.
Travel insurance.
Some local currency for not included services and tips.

Who carries what?

Carried by the trekker

Personal backpack and personal belongings
Sleeping bag (either personal or rented)
Sleeping mattress (supplied for free)
Water or purifying pills¹

¹Even if we give boiled water in the mornings, trekkers can bring their own water, hydrating beverages or purifying pills.

Carried by our staff

Personal tent, kitchen tent, dining tent, tables and chairs
Food, kitchen supplies, butane
First aid and logistics equipment
In general, everything that is collective.

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