Can You Hike The Inca Trail With A Baby?
One of the most formidable hikes on the planet, the Inca Trail is a popular hike for all ages to come and enjoy.
Now whilst kids are more commonly joining the treks, many may still be wondering if they can bring a small baby with them on the Inca Trail – and if it’s worth it given how it could make things more stressful or complicated.
In this guide we’ll answer whether you can bring a baby on the Inca Trail, and in which circumstances it’s most appropriate. We’ll also explore the most suitable Inca Trail routes for those who want to hike with a baby.
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Can You Do The Inca Trail With A Baby?
Quick Answer: The answer may surprise you, however yes it is possible to hike the Inca Trail with a baby!
First and most importantly it is legal, given there is no minimum age requirement to enter the sacred route. However, given the distance of the Inca Trail, it’s important to first consider your own fitness (if you plan on carrying your baby), and also the different options available.
For example, at AB Expeditions you can actually hire a personal porter to walk with you at all times whilst carrying your baby for you. Or if you prefer, you can carry your baby whilst your personal porter carries your additional hiking bags to make things easier for you.
Important Considerations Before Hiking The Inca Trail With A Baby
Now let’s take a look at some of the most important things to consider before booking your baby onto the Inca Trail with you.
Be Objective With Your Own Fitness Levels
The idea of bringing your baby on the Inca Trail can be a real blessing, and many do have lifetime memories having done so. However we need to be honest with ourselves and our ability to do so, as we will be hiking for 42km over uphill terrains and at times along slippery surfaces.
We also need to factor in the altitude too, as this will make hiking more difficult than it usually is at lower altitudes. This means you’ll want to think well before choosing to do so, or alternatively hire a private porter to carry your baby. Be sure to check out our Inca Trail Training Guide for more information.
The Best Seasons For Hiking The Inca Trail
We want your baby to be as comfortable as possible, and this means the dry season will be best. Running from April until October, these months are characterized by little rainfall and less misty weather. It will get colder in the evening during these months though, so be sure to bring extra layers and blankets for your baby.
The wet season (from November until March) really isn’t recommended given the extra rains can make your baby cold and uncomfortable, whilst there is an increased risk of falling over as the trail can get slippery in parts.
Select An Appropriate Inca Trail Circuit
Unless you are a hardcore athlete already used to really long hikes (or have hiked previously with your baby), then we recommend heading on the 2 Day Inca Trail tour. Not only will you miss the giant ascents and descents of day two, you’ll still see impressive ruins too such as Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu.
Of course if you feel up for it, you can still head on the Classic 4 Day Trek where you will get the full experience. This includes camping in unreal mountain settings, seeing remote alpine lakes and also exploring other hidden Incan ruins.
Overview Of Bringing A Baby On The Inca Trail
And that’s all for our guide on whether you can bring a baby on the Inca Trail.
Whilst most families are confident in bringing older children on longer hikes, many may be unsure whether they can bring their babies too. In this guide we’ve shown that it is indeed possible, and that many families have already done so. Just be sure to read our considerations again, so that both you and your baby will have a smooth and enjoyable experience out on the Inca Trail.
Remember that the availability of our Short Inca Trail Hike is limited, so be sure to book your trip at least 4-6 months in advance.