We recommend resting on the first day, drinking plenty of water, avoiding heavy meals, and trying the traditional coca tea. At IntiPath Tours, we suggest arriving at least two days before starting any hike.
To prevent or alleviate altitude sickness in Cusco, it's recommended to rest upon arrival, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol on the first day. Drinking coca tea, consuming soft snacks, and bringing any medications your doctor has recommended to help you acclimatize to the altitude can also be helpful.
How to avoid altitude sickness in Peru?
The key is gradual ascent. If you're traveling from the coast, spend some time in cities at mid-altitudes and avoid strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours.
The coldest months are usually June, July, and August, especially during the dry season. During this period, mornings and nights can be quite cold, with temperatures in some areas reaching close to or even below freezing, while daytime weather is generally milder and sunny.
The most famous and considered the best way to reach Machu Picchu is the Classic Inca Trail, because it combines history, Andean landscapes and the entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
June, July, and August offer the most stable weather. Keep in mind that this is peak season, so it's very crowded and tickets should be purchased well in advance.
There isn't one route that's "better" than another; it all depends on the type of experience you're looking for. The Inca Trail is ideal if you're looking for history, culture, and archaeological ruins, while the Salkantay Trek is perfect for lovers of wild nature, high mountain landscapes, and fewer crowds.
The most common way to visit is to leave Cusco or the Sacred Valley very early, travel by car or train to Aguas Calientes, and then take a bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This allows you to visit and return on the same day, although it is a long and strenuous journey.
The Salkantay trek is not dangerous, but it is a demanding route that requires good physical condition and adequate acclimatization to the altitude. The route includes high mountain passes (such as the Salkantay Pass), intense cold in high areas, and changes in climate, so it can be difficult if you are not prepared.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, between May and September. During these months there is less rain, the trails are in better condition, and the views of the Andean landscapes are clearer.
This hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude (4,630m). It requires a reasonable level of fitness and, above all, good prior acclimatization.
The Inca Trail reaches varying altitudes along its route. Its highest point is Abra Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman's Pass), which reaches approximately 4,215 meters above sea level.
The highest pass of the Salkantay Trek is located at 4,630 meters high, offering a spectacular view of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.
This is the most challenging section of the Inca Trail due to the steep climb. It is recommended to ascend slowly, at your own pace, and to use trekking poles for support.
The Salkantay Trek has an extreme climate. In the highlands (Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 m) and Soraypampa, the climate is frigid: nights drop to -10 °C and during the day it ranges from 8 °C to 15 °C. However, as you descend towards the cloud forest, the environment becomes warm and tropical.
For the Inca Trail, pack only the essentials due to weight restrictions and the demanding nature of the hike. Comfortable, lightweight clothing is recommended for the day, as well as warm layers for the cold mountain nights. It's important to include a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, broken-in hiking boots, a hat for sun and cold, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
No official government permit (like the one for the Inca Trail) is required to hike the route. You will only need your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, your Salkantay entrance ticket (paid at the checkpoint), and your passport or ID.
It's moderate. The most challenging aspects are the stone steps and the altitude, but with a steady pace and the support of our porters, it's entirely doable.
We recommend taking short walks in the weeks prior, doing cardiovascular exercises and, above all, being in Cusco 2 or 3 days before to acclimatize the body.
To undertake the most demanding tours in the Andes (such as the Ausangate Trek, the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Jungle) you need excellent physical condition, proven cardiovascular endurance, and acclimatization.
