The Inca Trail requires careful preparation and planning to ensure a smooth and enriching experience. Permits for the trail are limited and sell out quickly—often months in advance—so securing yours early is essential.

Your private guide will take care of logistics, from arranging permits to organizing porters and meals, leaving you free to focus on the journey.

The trail’s high altitudes and rugged terrain can be challenging. We recommend spending a day or two in Cusco before beginning your trek to acclimatize to the thinner air and explore the city’s rich history. Do not underestimate the risk of altitude sickness. This also allows for last-minute gear adjustments or purchases.

Packing the Essentials

Footwear: good quality, worn-in footwear with ankle support is certainly recommended for these rocky and uneven trails.

Clothing Layers: The Andean climate can be unpredictable. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket, particularly during the wet season (November to March).

Daypack: A comfortable, medium-sized daypack with a hydration system is ideal for carrying water, snacks, and essentials.

Trekking Poles: not strictly necessary, but certainly helpful, a stick or trekking poles can reduce strain on knees during steep ascents and descents, especially for those carrying heavier packs. The author studiously skips things like this in his own travels, inevitably finding an enviable stick along the way, but you do you.

Sleeping Gear: If not provided by your trekking company, bring a lightweight sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures.

Sun Protection: High-altitude sun exposure can be intense. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

First Aid & Medications: A basic first-aid kit, altitude sickness medication, and any personal prescriptions should be included.

Fitness Preparation

The Inca Trail and its alternatives involve steep climbs, uneven terrain, and high altitudes. Regular cardio, strength training, and a few practice hikes with elevation gain will all help.

This said, the author, who is in reasonably good shape, has a habit of just winging these sorts of adventures, and having them turn out successfully. This is not our recommendation…

Best Times to Visit

The dry season (May to September) offers clear skies and ideal trekking conditions, but it’s also the busiest. The shoulder seasons (April and October) provide a balance of good weather and fewer crowds. The wet season (November to March) sees lush landscapes but can make trails slippery and river crossings more challenging.

U N I T E D S T A T E S

P A L M S P R I N G S

O V E R V I E W

Here's what we think should form the core of your experience:

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