Lots of interest from hiking friends about hiking the Inca Trail these days, and as I have been focusing more on South and Central America on Facebook, I thought it was time to update an old post- exploring Peru and the Inca Trail!
Although this is not something I did while I was in Peru, I did participate in the “training” of the group with whom I travelled…..and found from our guide who had walked it hundreds of times, that to succeed, it really helps if you are in the area long enough to acclimatize yourself to the altitude.
Yes hill walking helps, but nothing can really prepare you for the grind of heading uphill on steep climbs for an entire day on your second day……so it does help if you are in excellent shape with which to start. Although two of us did not go, the other fourteen that did it ranged in age from approximately 30 to 70……in fact if I remember correctly at least 4 were over 60! And if you are part of a couple that enjoys the culture more than the hiking, than this trip of exploring Peru along with hiking the Inca Trail is definitely for you!
Exploring Peru and the Inca Trail
Peru Explorer
Here is one of the top trips to ensure you succeed in your dreams to hike the Inca trail- this trip will give you time to acclimatize to the altitude, along with lots of day hikes to ensure you are in the best shape before beginning. As well, the Peru Explorer is an in-depth exploration of the highlights of southern Peru- and one which I enjoyed immensely in 2011. There are other shorter trips- please contact me if you require something shorter and/ or less expensive.
This Peru holiday is the perfect three-week introduction to one of the most diverse countries in South America, visiting all the major highlights. The journey contrasts the incomparable scenery of the Andes with the lush vegetation of the world’s richest rainforest, as well as its driest desert. Peru’s landscape is adorned with ancient cities, buildings and fortresses of colossal size and in settings of amazing beauty. For walking enthusiasts there is the option to trek the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and for wildlife lovers the Ballestas Islands and the Amazon Rainforest. This trip is now priced from $5165 plus flights- depending on the time of the year, and if the accommodations are at the premium level or not……worth every penny however! A wonderful country with lots to see……I cannot emphasize this too strongly…….just to hike the Inca trail means you are missing out on Peru in many ways!
Inca Trail Trekking Conditions
Though not without difficulties, this trek is certainly possible for anyone in a good state of health and fitness, but we would not recommend it to anyone unused to walking. If you are not a regular walker you should put in some physical preparation before departure. The trek is of medium altitude, and you will achieve adequate acclimatization in the several days at the altitudes of Puno and Cuzco. Underfoot conditions are generally good, with no scree and only one steep descent, and the paths are very well defined during the trek.
There are two passes of about 4,000m to cross, with the second day being the most difficult, though the rest of the Trail is fairly easy going. All food preparation is done by our cooks and camp staff and your tent can be erected for you if you wish. We take a separate dining tent for morning and eveing meals in camp, as well as a toilet tent for use both in camp and during lunch. You never have to carry your own luggage on trek, as all gear is carried by porters, but you will need a small daypack, as you generally cannot get at your main luggage until you camp for the night.
Meals on the trek are large, varied and nutritious, and always include a hot dish as well as plenty of tea to keep you hydrated. Drinking water (boiled and filtered) is provided in the mornings and at lunch for you to refill your bottles.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Start Lima; afternoon city tour.
Day 2 Drive south to Paracas, visiting Pachacamac and Pucusana.
Day 3 Sail to Ballestas Islands; continue south to Nazca via Ica.
Day 4 Drive along coast before turning inland to Arequipa.
Day 5 City tour, including Santa Catalina Convent.
Day 6 Drive to Colca Canyon.
Day 7 Explore the canyon, including condor viewing site.
Day 8 Drive via Sillustani to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Day 9 Sail to Uros reed islands; afternoon explore lake shore.
Day 10 Spectacular drive across the altiplano to Cuzco.
Day 11 Drive to the Sacred Valley, visit Pisac market and Inca ruins.
Day 12 Optional rafting trip; overnight Cuzco.
For Inca Trail option, days 13-15 are spent trekking.
Day 13-14 Free time in Cuzco.
Day 15 Take the train to Machu Picchu.
Day 16 Explore Machu Picchu; afternoon return to Cuzco.
Day 17 Tour of Cuzco and Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Day 18 Free time in Cuzco.
Day 19 Short flight to Puerto Maldonado; boat deep into rainforest; afternoon jungle walk. Day 20 Jungle exploration.
Day 21 Fly to Lima; end Lima.
Details:
Mode of travel: Travel by internal flight, train, boat and private bus. Inca Trail option: 4 days moderate to strenuous walking with full porterage.
Group size: Normally 7 to 16, plus leader, local guides and appropriate staff on Inca Trail.
Accommodation: 18 nights hotels and 2 nights jungle lodge, all with en suite facilities. Inca Trail option: 3 nights full service camping replaces 3 nights hotels.
Food: All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners included. Additional meals included on Inca Trail option.
Inca Trail option no extra cost – please request on booking
