Trekking Tips

Trekking Tips

Trekking Tips

Getting Ready for your Trekking

Some people find it overwhelming to figure out how to prepare for their adventure to Machu Picchu. Hiking to Machu Picchu is something truly incredible that we all are capable of doing (everything is possible – impossible is nothing), but these helpful hints should get you there a little easier.

Hiking in the Andes is something different than hiking at sea level. The higher elevation makes breathing difficult. Some people find it helpful to use prescribed medication like Diamox. Talk to your physician to figure out what is best for you.

Gets your body moving. Walk, go running, and hike…whichever you choose will help prepare you for constant motion and getting through your days until you reach Machu Picchu. 

STEPS by STEPS.

For those of you who chose the Inca Trail package, the Incas created a path of steps along the trail and you will be using those original Inca creations. They are not even, they are steep and they are plentiful. Most of the steps go downhill, so make sure to practice going down uneven trails.
When you are ready to pack for your trip, remember less is more. Here are some essential things you should remember.}

For the alternative trek you still need to be in good shape. 

 
Original passport…make sure you bring the same passport that you used when booking. We submit your passport number to the National Park service and they will not allow you on the trail or any other trek with a different passport number.
Student ISIC card…those who have booked as a student also need to bring their original valid student ISIC card in order to be allowed onto the Inca trail or any other tours.

Hiking boots…make sure to use your hiking boots before you get to Cusco. Boots needs to be broken in and are often uncomfortable on your first few hikes. You don’t want to be uncomfortable on your trek.

Daypack…anything you need during the day needs to be carried by you in your daypack. It’s great to get one with a camelback so you have plenty of water available.

 

What you need to carry in your daypack:

  • Rain jacket/Rain pants…the weather on the mountain is unpredictable. We can’t promise you that there won’t be rain. In case of rain, you will be most comfortable in a waterproof jacket and pants.
  • Rain poncho…bring a rain poncho in addition to your jacket (we included rain poncho) so you have something to cover your daypack. Plus, during warm days, it will be more comfortable.
  • Head Lamp…there isn’t any electricity at the camping sites. Headlamps are important to walk around, be comfortable in your tent and use in the washroom.
  • Layers…the temperature changes drastically from morning to night. Make sure to pack lots of layers including something extra warm for the evenings and for sleeping in the tent.
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Mosquito Repellant
  • Hat…you might want more than one. One to block the sun and one to keep you warm when you get to the top of the Andes.
  • Candy…Runas Expeditions will give you a snack each day, but some people like to pack a little extra sugar to help them to get the extra energy needed to finish the day.
  • Toilet paper
  • First aid kit…its useful to have a small first aid kit with bandaids, tylenol, nausea pills. It’s always better to be safe then sorry.

These things are important to have, but can also be rented from Runas Expeditions.

  • Sleeping bag
  • Air mattress (included in the tour)
  • Walking sticks

And finally DO NOT FORGET YOUR CAMERA.
We hope this will be your greatest travelling experience and expect that you want to have photos to help you remember the trip. Extra batteries are always a good idea