One of the most important hikes in the area is without a doubt the Inca Trail. This iconic trail will take you through the archaeological sites that are part of the Inca road network, or Qhapaq Ñan.
Because it is a hike that requires physical effort, many travelers are afraid that they will not be able to complete the adventure. There is no need to be afraid anymore, you do not have to worry. While it is true that the altitude can sometimes make things more difficult, with the right preparation you will be able to complete this challenge without problems.
Now we will tell you how you can train for this beautiful hike:
How to prepare for the Inca Trail
If you are looking for the simplest answer, I would say acclimatization. However, here are some more detailed tips about preparation.
A deeper preparation:
The body is a machine that must adapt to any challenge that comes its way. In that sense, to be able to walk the 48 km of the Inca Trail without problems, here are some steps:
- Try to use the stairs instead of an elevator at home. During the 4 days you will have gradual climbs with steps going up and down, so it is necessary to be prepared for that.
- Do breathing exercises, practicing inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. This will help you because as part of the altitude, you may tend to breathe heavily, but do not forget to breathe as we are explaining here.
- Take regular walks of almost 30 minutes on trails and slopes so you can manage your pace, strategies, and even find ways to go up and down without problems.
- Train with cardiovascular exercises to work your heart and heart rate. Join Zumba sessions, run some routes, and you will be more than ready.
Preparation when you arrive:
We know that you are coming from an altitude that may not be similar to what you are used to. However, when you arrive in Cusco, follow these tips and we can assure you that you will be more than ready for your hike.
- It is important to arrive at least 2 days before your hike. Having two full days in the city will help your body get used to the altitude.
- When you arrive, eat light. After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will have countless opportunities to try delicious Peruvian food. However, before your hike, we recommend eating healthy, light, and even vegetarian food to avoid stomach problems.
- Get enough rest. Avoiding parties before the hike and even avoiding alcohol will improve your performance during the hike.
- Try coca leaves. Without a doubt, this should be one of the best gifts from nature. Chewing the leaves and swallowing only the liquid from the mix of saliva and coca leaves will feel like magic to you. It will give you energy and can even help counteract altitude sickness.
During the hike: Stay consistent
It is important to know that preparing for the hike is not enough. You also need to put what you have learned into practice. Therefore:
- If you feel very tired during the hike, it is good to know when to stop and rest for a moment before continuing.
- Since you will be with a certified guide during the hike, they will know what to do and when to stop if they see that you are very tired or need personal assistance.
- Listen to your body. Many times, when we do not pay attention to the signs, we realize that we are not drinking enough water or not eating properly. During the hike, many food options will be available. Eat enough carbohydrates and proteins to maintain your energy.
- Stay hydrated. Take good sips of water while walking so you can stay aware and alert.
- Take only the necessary breaks and avoid stopping when it is not needed.
Why is training important for the Inca Trail?
One of the main reasons why thousands of travelers come from different parts of the world is because they want to visit Machu Picchu. Because of this, it is one of the biggest dreams to complete the hike and reach the Sun Gate to finally see Machu Picchu in the distance.
Therefore, it is completely necessary to train for this hike because it is not only about completing the hike, but also about being in the right condition to do it and avoiding problems, including the possibility of evacuation during the route.
If you already booked the 4-day Inca Trail, what should you keep in mind?
Well, once you have already booked the Inca Trail, the only thing left is to prepare and keep these aspects in mind:
- Train to be ready and be one of the champions who complete the Inca Trail.
- Prepare the clothes you will need for 4 days, including base layers, fleece layers, and a good jacket. Do not forget underwear, changes of shirts, socks, and hiking shoes.
- Drink water, eat healthy, and keep in mind that you can do it and you will succeed on your hike.
You are ready now. Trust yourself, and we know you will complete the Inca Trail with satisfaction!