Are you planning your next adventure in the Andes? The Inca Trail stands out as one of the main goals for doing treks and adventure in Peru. However, doing this journey is not something that can be decided from one day to the next; it requires precise logistics and making decisions in advance.
This is the fundamental advice for any traveler: the Inca Trail tickets must be managed with many months of priority. People from all over the world visit Cusco especially for this excursion, and because the government limits access to only 500 people per day (including support staff), the tickets sell out almost instantly once they are released.
Besides guaranteeing your spot, booking in advance is a smart decision for your budget, since the price usually increases every year. By securing your spot for the Inca Trail 2026 in advance, you protect your investment and avoid last-minute price increases. Don't forget that, if you want to complete your experience, it is also necessary to book the climb to Wayna Picchu to get those legendary panoramic photos of the Inca citadel.
1. Acclimatization: Another good advice to avoid delays and problems during the path, is better spend few days in Cusco city for acclimatize to the climate before the hike. Although however not everybody need it, you would have to check your develop for one day in Cusco. When it about kids is better acclimatize a couple days and if still kids don't be ready for a hike you and your children will need further days for a successful process and outface the wonderful hike. During the path try to drink only boiled water or purified water and in the night a coca tea, also avoid drink water of the lake because is probable be contaminated. Many tourists have some medicine or a treatment for the mountain or altitude sickness, follow the tip and avoid the problem in few days.
2. Good physical condition and body preparation: It is essential to be in good shape to face the Extreme Inca Trail, but physical preparation goes beyond exercise. To fully enjoy this experience, we recommend taking care of your health days before departure: avoid parties and drinking alcohol before the hike, choose healthy food and, above all, avoid fast food, as the digestive process is slower at high altitude and this can cause dizziness or discomfort during the journey.
3. The backpacks: Bring the weight correctly is other important fact you need to know, generally should carry waterproofs and additional clothes. Other things you can bring in your hike must be the identification document, a cap or hat, sleeping bag, video-camera and loaders, a personal medicine kit, gloves, wool scarves, swimwear, insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, flashlight and batteries, binoculars, some lemon candies, chocolate bar and further money. The carriers will bring your other things you can need, so don't worry just try to carry the ideal weight (5-7kl). Remember have only the necessary.
4. Trekking shoes: It is essential to have quality trekking footwear to face the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Andean trails are uneven and, without the right support, it is common for travelers to suffer ankle injuries or dangerous slips. This is especially critical during the rainy season, when mud and humidity make the Inca pavement extremely slippery.
As experienced travelers in treks and adventure in Peru, we must be prepared for any weather and prevent setbacks that could affect the expedition. Here we help you decide according to your style:
Trekking Shoes (Low cut): They are light and give you more agility, allowing you to move faster on dry terrain. They are ideal if you prefer to feel light and are not carrying a very heavy backpack.
Trekking Boots (Mid/high cut): They are the most effective option if you are carrying a significant load or if you do the journey during wet months. Their design protects the ankle from twists on irregular stones and allows you to walk more easily through the mud. Preventing an ankle injury is a priority, as an incident of this type could delay or even cancel your journey.
In the end, the choice depends on your personal comfort, but always make sure the footwear is waterproof and has a sole with good grip (Vibram type or similar).
5. Walking sticks: Even though for some they might seem like an optional accessory, poles are one of the most important and useful tools to successfully navigate the Inca Trail. The Andean terrain is uneven and, in many sections, the original stone pavement can be slippery or very steep.
6. Enjoy the ride: How the title says just enjoy the ride, don't try to arrive first to some site because will be losing all the nature, the beautiful plants and animals. When you will be in the archaeological sites take your time for photos or ask questions about that. Is not a race, is a ride where your priority is enjoy and learn the place. All latest is fine but remember follow the instructions and rules. So just enjoy each site until arrive to Machu Picchu.
Peru is a country full of contrasts: coast, highlands, and jungle offer unique routes for those seeking adventure, history, and unforgettable landscapes. From cities full of heritage to amazing natural destinations, each region shows a different side of the country and leaves indelible memories. Get to know the best tours in Peru:
Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and more
If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.
+51 84 217 551
+51 997 434 941
Av Tupac Amaru PP-10B, Santiago, Cusco, Peru 
info@incatrailmachu.com
www.incatrailmachu.com
