Is The Inca Trail Easy To Hike?
One of the biggest questions we get asked about the Inca Trail is whether it is easy to hike.
However, given this trail is complex and has various ecosystems and altitudes, we need to dive a bit deeper into the Inca Trail to properly answer this common question.
In this guide we’ll look at whether the Inca Trail is easy to hike, and what factors may affect your own experience here. We’ll also list different ways you can prepare in order to make the trek easier for you.
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Is The Inca Trail Easy To Hike?
Quick Answer: Measuring at a total distance of 42km, you may think that the Inca Trail is a relatively straightforward path. However it takes 4 days to cover this distance, given we’ll be hiking up and down mountains, through cloud forests as well as within high altitudes.
Whether the Inca Trail is easy to hike really depends on your own physical capabilities and hiking experience. If you have adjusted well to the altitude and have hiked similar distances before, then it should be relatively straightforward.
However if you are out of shape, or have chosen to hike the Inca Trail in the wet season with little preparation, then you may find it more difficult.
Different Ways To Make The Inca Trail Easier To Hike
Get In Good Physical Shape
Your training for the Inca Trail should start way before you even reach Peru. We recommend following a gentle hiking routine for at least 3 months before, so your body gets used to hiking longer distances.
Prepare Well For The Higher Altitudes
The Inca Trail will see you hike through altitudes between 2400-4200m above sea-level. You can prevent any altitude sickness symptoms by acclimating in Cusco for a few days before, as well as using coca leaves and Soroche Pills during your trek.
Invest In Quality Gear
It’s the small things that make each step either easier or harder for you along the Inca Trail. To improve your experience, we recommend using walking sticks and sleeping in high quality tents, both of which we provide on our Inca Trail tours. It’s also a good idea to invest in good hiking boots, thick layers as well as a sturdy yet comfortable backpack.
Is The Inca Trail Easy FAQ
Below we’ll now answer some of the biggest questions we get from readers who are wondering whether the Inca Trail is easy to hike.
How Difficult Is The Inca Trail For Beginners?
Even if you have little experience hiking in Peru (or in general), you can still enjoy the Inca Trail. It’s important to plan properly though given this will make or break your experience. You can find out how to properly prepare in this guide.
Do You Have To Be Fit To Do The Inca Trail?
You need to be in a relatively decent physical shape to be able to hike the Inca Trail – after all we will be hiking long distances at altitude for 4 days. Whilst you don’t need to be a super athlete to do the Inca Trail, you will still need to train properly before arriving here in Cusco.
Can You Do The Inca Trail If You Are Scared Of Heights?
This is a common worry, and especially so as we are high up in the Andean mountains. There are certain parts (such as on Day 2 and 4) which are noticeably higher-up, however the path is always wide and safe. If you have extreme vertigo then you may be better-off choosing a different route. You can get in touch with us to discuss these alternative hiking options.
Is The Inca Trail Easy To Hike?
And that’s all for our guide on if the Inca Trail is easy to hike.
Covering a total distance of 42km, the Inca Trail can be difficult given it is at high altitude and has a variety of tricky terrains to walk across. However with good preparation and know-how you can easily hike the Inca Trail with little difficulties whilst ensuring a fun time in the process.
We highly recommend reading our Ultimate Inca Trail Guide to learn more about how you can properly prepare and train for this sacred Peruvian route.