In a world filled with natural and cultural wonders, few experiences compare to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. But before you start dreaming of panoramic views and ancient trails, it’s essential that you’re well-prepared for the journey. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about what to pack for the Inca Trail, from your luggage to necessary documents and key precautions to ensure a worry-free trip.
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What you should know before packing for the Inca Trail
Before packing, it’s vital to know that most of your belongings will stay in a secure warehouse, either at your hotel in Cusco or with the travel agency you booked with.
The essentials for the Inca Trail are:
- The personal backpack you’ll use during the tour.
- A duffel bag, provided by your agency, which you won’t carry with you.
Inca Trail in Peru includes an extensive support team, such as porters, cooks, and guides. These porters not only carry the cooking and camping equipment but also food supplies and a certain amount of luggage from each tourist.
In summary, for the Inca Trail, you’ll only need to carry the essentials in your backpack, while the rest will be taken care of by a porter in a 5kg duffel bag.
Luggage: What to bring
- Appropriate clothing: You need versatile clothing. During the day, the sun is warm, but nights are cold. Also, rain can appear at any moment! So:
- A couple of polyester or cotton shirts
- Wide, comfortable convertible pants
- Essential waterproof jacket
- Leggings
- Windbreaker jacket (outer layer)
- Waterproof jacket (secondary layer)
- Gloves
- Cotton socks
- Hat or cap
- Raincover (rain poncho)
- Footwear: The terrain varies and can sometimes be slippery. Your feet will thank you if you wear trekking boots with good support and grip. Another option is trekking shoes; another tip is to bring a pair of sandals to refresh your feet after a long day of hiking.
- Accessories:
- A sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Scarf or bandana
- Sunscreen
- Flashlight and batteries
- Cash
- A camera
- Snacks:
- Fresh fruits, candies, chocolates
- Water container
- Water purifying tablets
- Electrolytes
- Protein bars
- Coca leaves or coca candy
- Dried fruits
- Dried meat
- Personal hygiene items:
- Insect repellent
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Wet wipes
- Deodorant
- Roll of toilet paper
- Comb
- Dry shampoo
- Soap
- Lip balm
- Emergency kit:
- Medications: Includes Diamox, sorojchi pills, Pepto, Ibuprofen, Imodium, and vertigo medicine.
- Patches for blisters and band-aids
- Disinfectant ointment
Documents: Beyond the passport
- Tickets and reservations: Access to the Inca Trail is limited. Don’t forget your tickets and confirmations. Keep copies, preferably in digital format.
- Inca Trail permit: It’s mandatory and limited. Ensure you process it in advance and have it on hand.
- Travel insurance: Although we hope you don’t need it, it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality.
- Valid original passport: Essential for identification and access. National Identity Document: It’s always good to have a second identification.
- Student ID: Important if you’re going to use a discount.
Precautions: Better to prevent than to cure
- Altitude: Altitude sickness can affect even the most experienced. Take coca candies or specific pills for altitude sickness. An additional recommendation is to spend a day or two in Cusco before doing the Inca Trail.
- Respect for the environment: This trail is a world heritage site. Bring bags for your trash, and please, don’t take anything from the place or leave marks.
- The secret item: Many travelers forget a simple but vital object: a trekking pole. Your knees will thank you on the descents, and it will give you stability on difficult terrains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of backpack is most suitable for the Inca Trail?
A 20-30 liter hiking backpack is ideal for daily needs.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag or do agencies provide them?
Some agencies offer the option to rent, but it’s always good to check in advance.
Should I bring my own food and water?
Agencies typically provide meals, but it’s always good to bring snacks and a refillable water bottle.
Should I carry cash during the trail?
It’s advisable to bring some cash for small expenses or tips.
What type of sunscreen is most suitable for the altitude and climate?
A broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 50 or higher, is recommended.
Should I bring a stick or trekking poles?
If you’re not used to walking on uneven terrains, it could be beneficial. Some people find them helpful for descents.
Are there specific vaccines I should have before doing the Inca Trail?
While there are no mandatory vaccines, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor before doing the Inca Trail.