Is It Worth Hiking The Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is one of those “must-do” experiences when exploring Peru.
Here we can enjoy an ancient route once used by the Inca on their journeys to Machu Picchu, as well as have a culturally-rich experience with local guides who will teach you about the different archaeological sites that you pass along the way.
In this guide we’ll look at whether the Inca Trail is worth hiking, and why we personally think that it is a must-do experience when heading to Peru. We’ll also cover 5 reasons why you will want to hike the Inca Trail.
Is It Worth Hiking The Inca Trail?
Quick Answer: The Inca Trail remains one of the most complete treks that you can head on in all of South America, let alone just Peru.
Here we can enjoy a variety of lesser-known archaeological ruins along the route before arriving at Machu Picchu. In this way the Inca Trail is unique, and helps to keep your imagination alive as you progress through the trek.
We’ll also enjoy some outstanding natural landscapes, and even more so when booking the longer, multi-day Inca Trail tours.
5 Reasons Why The Inca Trail Is Worth Hiking
Here are some of the top reasons why we believe the Inca Trail is one of the best hiking routes you can complete in South America.
1. A Complete Journey Through The Andes
The best thing about the Inca Trail is that you can combine stunning scenery along with ancient history.
Here you’ll be walking a sacred path which is over 3000 years old, where you’ll also get to see unique flora and fauna from this Andean region.
Guides who take you along the route will be very knowledgeable, and can teach you many interesting facts about the ancient ruins and sites that you will pass along the way.
2. The Altitude On The Inca Trail Is More Manageable Compared With Other Treks
Whilst other hikes in and around Cusco can be extremely challenging (especially those above 4000m such as the Salkantay Trek), the Inca Trail has an average elevation of 3000m, which is much easier for the body to get adjusted to.
If you do still struggle with these altitudes, then be sure to buy Coca Leaves or Soroche Pills in Cusco before starting your hike.
3. Enjoy A More Peaceful Hike With No Crowds
Cusco as a whole is becoming a very touristy destination, given there is a huge amount of incredible things to see and do here and within the Sacred Valley.
However the Inca Trail has a permit limit of just 200 travelers a day, meaning you won’t have to jostle with crowds to see the ruins, whilst enjoying the hike with minimum disturbance from others.
4. Visit Novel Ancient Ruins That Little Travelers Get To See
Travelers are so often caught up with seeing Machu Picchu, that they often forget they will experience some truly outstanding ruins along the Inca Trail too.
Some of the very best include Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Llactapata. For this reason you’ll want to make sure to keep your camera fully charged before leaving to hike each day!
Of course Machu Picchu is still an incredible sight to behold though. After all, it is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World!
5. See Some Unbeatable Mountain Landscapes Along The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail passes through the towering Andes, which is home to many memorable landscapes.
This includes snow-capped peaks, lush green jungle as well as incredible valley panoramas. Again, heading with a reputable company is important since your guides can also show you some lesser-known highlights along the way.
When Is It Not Worth Hiking The Inca Trail?
On the contrary, we have to be honest in saying that the Inca Trail is not for everyone. Below we share some of these factors, and if this includes you then you may want to give the Inca Trail a miss.
1. You Don’t Like Spending Money
Whilst we can find many amazing experiences throughout Peru which are great for your wallet, it’s important to know that the Inca Trail is not one of these.
Tour prices begin from $400 for the most basic 2 day tour, whilst the classic 4 day tour (which is the most popular) costs around $700.
After all, these tours tend to be long multi-day treks, which includes many benefits such as food and accommodation provided, your own personal porter, your Inca Trail permit as well as your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
2. You Have An Intense Fear Of Heights
The Inca Trail is an amazing network of paths that pass between Andean mountains, and as a result, there will be some pretty steep (yet spectacular) drops. These aren’t at all dangerous though, given there is a clear path that you will follow with your guide.
You will always be safe when hiking the Inca Trail with ABExpeditions, however if you have a serious fear of heights then it may be best to give it a pass and try a more relaxed trek instead.
3. You Are In Poor Physical Shape
It’s important to first define what this means. By poor physical shape, we are referring to those who struggle to walk for over a couple of hours without getting tired.
Whether this is down to a lack of exercising or having a different medical condition, it doesn’t matter. This is because at these higher altitudes (around 3000 meters above sea-level on average), it makes all usual activities harder. And yes – there will be a lot of walking to do along the Inca Trail!
Is It Worth Hiking The Inca Trail?
And that’s all for this guide on whether the Inca Trail is worth visiting.
There’s nothing quite like the Inca Trail hike, where you can see stunning scenery whilst immersing yourself in ancient culture. Here at ABExpeditions, we personally think that the Inca Trail is one of the best hiking experiences you can have in the Andes regions.
In this guide we’ve looked at whether the Inca Trail is worth visiting, as well as 5 top reasons for you to add it to your trip around Peru.
Are you thinking of hiking the Inca Trail? Then learn more about whether the 2 Day or 4 Day Hike is best for you