The difficulty of the Inca Trail can be mitigated by proper preparation. If you’re committed to embarking on this adventure, planning should begin well in advance, preferably six months or more. Two crucial aspects of preparation are gear and fitness.
Gear and Equipment
Let’s start with gear! To successfully complete the journey to Machu Picchu, hikers need to ensure they have the right gear and equipment. This includes appropriate footwear, suitable clothing for the lower and upper body, face and head protection, and outerwear to shield against the elements. A daypack is necessary to carry essential gear and clothing for each day’s hike, while a duffle bag is needed to hold personal belongings, extra clothing, and a sleeping bag, among other things. For recommendations on essential items to pack in a daypack, you can refer to a blog post by Jeff Bonaldi, the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage.
It’s important to note that the evening before your Inca Trail hike begins, you will likely meet with your guide, who will provide important information about the journey ahead. You will also review your packed belongings. Typically, each hiker will have a specially sized duffle bag, which will be carried by porters throughout the trail. The number of porters, guides, and staff is regulated by Peru’s government to support trekkers and ensure fair treatment of the workers. Your guide(s) will weigh the duffle bag at your hotel in Cusco to ensure it is within the weight limits, usually around 17 pounds (7.7 kilograms). The rest of your gear will go in your daypack. It’s advisable to keep your daypack under 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms) and carry only the essential items. If you have extra clothing that you won’t need during the trek, most hotels will allow you to store it securely until you return from the hike.
Additionally, we highly recommend trekking poles as an essential gear item at The Explorer’s Passage. While personal preference varies, trekking poles can provide significant support, particularly during challenging sections with stairs that can strain the knees. They can make your hike much easier and more enjoyable.
To maintain brevity, we haven’t provided a complete packing list in this guide. If you’re interested in receiving a copy of our itinerary and packing list for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure trip with The Explorer’s Passage, please contact us, and we’ll be glad to send it to you via email.
