Essential Clothing Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail

The Cusco region, where the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are located, does not have the normal 4 seasons you may be used to. They have 2 defined seasons, the dry season (April to September) and the wet season (October to March).

Because of this, more people hike during the dry season and fewer during the wet season. This may help you decide when to travel to Cusco and hike the Inca Trail. Permits sell out fairly quickly from April to July. If you don’t like crowds, we suggest you go in March or after July.

This doesn’t mean that the weather during the other months is horrible. The rains are not as intense during those months, which is why trekking is allowed during them. The Inca Trail is closed in February due to rain and for trek maintenance.

The temperature in Cusco does not fluctuate much throughout the year. During the day it can reach 20°C and at night it can reach single digits.

For your hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail we recommend you be prepared for rain at any time of the year. The weather is unpredictable in the mountains so it is best to be prepared. Also have layers for the night in case the temperature drops below freezing.

Protect your feet

You need to protect your feet, they are your tool to traverse the Inca Trail. So trekking boots are a must and you cannot go without them.

They must be modern trekking boots, we recommend those that cover the ankles to ensure the protection of your feet.

Don’t arrive in new boots that you haven’t worn yet. You’ll get blisters, your feet will hurt, and you’ll even lose your toenails.

Push your foot all the way in to check the fit of the boot. Place your foot inside the boot with a mid-weight hiking sock on. Take your index finger and insert it between the heel and the back of the boot. The perfect fit is when your finger sits comfortably in this gap. If your finger is too tight, the boot is too small, and vice versa.

In terms of quality, you should look for these key features.

• The sole should be made of rubber and have medium to deep lugs for good traction.
• Heavy boots are great but can be tiring, try to aim for medium weight ones for this Inca Trail.
• Gore-tex is the best material for waterproofing boots
• The lacing system should incorporate speed hooks or D-rings to provide additional ankle support.

Trekking socks

Bring at least 4 pairs of trekking socks. Material is key here, look for ones that are sturdy and not too heavy. The best trekking socks are made of wool, preferably merino, as they promote breathability and are very good at wicking moisture away from the foot. If you can find ones with a waterproof membrane, then you’ve found your socks. If you’re allergic to wool, avoid cotton. You can opt for a synthetic acrylic or acrylic blend sock.

Water bottle

To combat altitude sickness, water is the best option. Staying hydrated will help your body overcome the challenge. Our team will provide you with water from the first camping lunch to the end of the route.

It is possible to buy water at some points along the route, but we do not recommend it. It is expensive and generates unnecessary waste along the way.

To carry 2 or more liters of water with you every day you can

• Use two 1 liter bottles
• Use a 1.5 litre bottle (and drink half a litre before you leave in the morning)
• Use a hydration bladder (holds 2-5 liters).

Sleeping bags

This is a must, you can’t forget to bring one or rent one from us. Alpaca Expeditions will provide different accessories for the night.

Sleeping is one of the most important things when hiking. Having a sleeping bag that can provide comfort, warmth and protection is a must.

It is possible to rent a sleeping bag from Alpaca Expeditions. This will ensure quality and free you from having to bring one from home.

Please note that both the tent and sleeping bag are included, so you do not need to bring them.

Natural vs. synthetic

Natural down sleeping bags are always better, lighter and their quality is unbeatable. But they are more expensive than others, so keep that in mind.

When buying a sleeping bag, you need to be honest with yourself. If you are going to use it on other, perhaps more demanding trips after the Inca Trail, then choose a higher quality one. It will last longer and be used more. Otherwise, choose something that will be useful for that trip, without spending too much. A light and warm sleeping bag will serve you for many years.

Heat

The coldest months coincide with the dry trekking season, from May to September. Keep in mind that temperatures can drop below zero degrees (Celsius). Since Cusco and the Inca Trail can host all four seasons, aim for -10 C (14F). During the drier months like March-April and October-November you can bet on a 3-season sleeping bag (-4 C / 25F). We already mentioned that December, January and February are not good months to trek to Machu Picchu. You can go by train but if trekking is your thing, avoid these months.

Weight

The porter will carry the sleeping bag, but it is always better to pack it light. Heat and weight always go hand in hand, but try to carry a sleeping bag that weighs no more than 2.5 kg.

Shape

Since the sleeping bags we rent are mummy type, we advise you to bring this type. Why? Because this style guarantees comfort and protection. These types of sleeping bags adjust to your body and will provide you with adequate comfort.

Air mat

Comfort is always welcome when you want to rest after a full day of trekking. But remember that the weight should be as low as possible. We rent an air mattress, which weighs 1 kg and will be included in the weight of your duffel bag. We will include a foam mat for free, so if you don’t want to rent an air mattress we advise you not to bring one on your own.

Inflatable pillow (optional)

This is an optional item as well. This will add extra comfort, we include pillows that the porters will take with them and will not affect your weight. Inflatable pillows are good because they don’t take up much space and the weight is reduced.

Earplugs (optional)

Noise is not a big problem during the nights on the Inca Trail. It is all nature but if you are a light sleeper these will help a lot. They do not take up much space and the weight is almost zero.

Accessories

Passport – This item is mandatory, you will need your passport information for the booking process. You will also need your physical one for each checkpoint on the Inca Trail. This is very important at the point of not being able to get to the Trail if your Passport is missing.

Insurance – As a company we guarantee the care of our hikers but in case you feel unwell we advise you to have travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses. You can let us know the details of this. We will provide you with all the necessary assistance at any time during your trip to Cusco.

Swimsuit (optional) – There are hot springs near Aguas Calientes, just below Machu Picchu, where you can swim. We don’t include it in our itinerary, but on treks like Salkantay and Lares you will visit the hot springs.

Water-resistant sunscreen – Cusco is a very high-altitude city with a dry climate, these 2 characteristics make sunburns very common and something you should be aware of. We advise buying at least 30 spf water-resistant sunscreen so that it will last even if you are sweating.

Bug Spray – It’s true that Cusco is a city with no mosquitoes or bugs to worry about. The Inca Trail features a wide spectrum of climates and ecosystems. From the third day onwards, the weather will be hot, humid and subtropical, so there will be mosquitoes or bugs wanting to bite you. A regular bug spray will be enough to cover you.

Baby Wipes – At all campsites our porters will provide you with buckets of clean water and soap to clean your hands and face. These wipes will be perfect to add more freshness to your daily cleansing routine. Please note that you will not be able to shower for almost 4 days during the trek.

Plastic Bags – Inside your duffel bag we will provide 2 large plastic bags for your clothes and sleeping bags. We advise you to bring a couple more to store wet clothes or trash.

Pee bottle (for ladies) – This can be very useful if needed. Please remember that we will be carrying a toiletry tent for our clients.

Plasters for blisters – Walking the Inca Trail is tough, so blisters can be common. Wearing plasters will provide protection if this happens. Remember to only apply this when the area is completely dry. You can also ask your guide for help, they are qualified as paramedics and will provide you with all the necessary help.

General Medications – Your guide will have a first aid kit and some general pills, but we encourage you to bring your own. We cannot provide medication just like that so please bring your own.

Snacks – Food during the trek will not be a problem, you will be surprised, we will also provide you with snacks. But each person’s energy needs are different. Bringing energy bars or granola will make your journey easier.

Toiletries: For this route it is essential to have at least one roll of toilet paper. Dry shampoo is best for trekking and also some soap. Don’t forget a toothbrush and toothpaste for travelers.

Cash – You won’t need any cash along the hike. The cash you will need will be for when you get to Aguas Calientes and also to tip your crew. The latter is optional, it’s customary but not mandatory. We recommend you bring $100 USD or 300 soles just to be safe and not be in a hurry.

Cameras and Power bank – Once on the Inca Trail you will be amazed by the scenery. The landscapes and ruins will leave a mark on your soul. If you want to immortalize this moment we recommend you bring a good camera. GoPros are amazing for this but if you want to bring a more professional one you can do so. Just remember that bigger means heavier and also that tripods are not allowed in Machu Picchu. Drones are not allowed on either the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu. Don’t forget a good power bank to recharge your phone and cameras. There is no access to electricity throughout the experience so you need to be prepared.

Sleeping bags

Since we guarantee the quality of our tents, we can offer you premium sleeping bags if you need to rent one. Our sleeping bags are 80” long x 60” wide at the shoulders, -15°C (2°F) degree mummy type 850+ fill power goose down with nylon cover. You can rent these for $25 USD for your entire Inca Trail.

Air mats

What if we told you that you can improve your sleep hours even in the mountains? Well, this is a reality with our sleeping mats. Our mats are 2.5 inches thick and 180×60 cm for a great night without touching the cold. You can rent it for only 20 USD for your entire trip.

Foam mattress

We mentioned our air mats just above. In case you don’t want them, we’ve got your back. We provide our foam mattress for free. We don’t want anyone to come into contact with the cold floor. So if extra comfort isn’t among your needs, you’ll have this foam mattress that will be more than enough. The size is 180cmx60cm

Walking sticks

Hiking is always a challenge, we know you can do it but we also want you to protect your body. During this type of hiking our knees and ankles take the full impact. By using good quality poles, we can reduce the strain on them. We can rent you our black diamond trekking poles, they are light and strong. You can rent them for only $20 and ask your guide for the best way to use them.

Rain poncho and extra plastic bags

Inside your travel bags you will find some items that will help you on your excursions.

A plastic rain poncho, we recommend that you wear it over your rain gear, so that it takes most of the impact of the water.

Then 2 plastic bags, one for clothes and one for the sleeping bag.

Backpack cover

In case you don’t have one or to use it as a spare, we will provide you with a waterproof backpack cover. It is light green so that the guide can find you more easily even at great distances.

Souvenir T-shirt

Conquering the mountains is no joke, it’s a task worth telling everyone about. That’s why we’ll have a t-shirt for everyone, with the hike you just completed and the distance covered on the back. We have all sizes, just tell us.

Toiletries and others

Sunglasses and sunscreen (SPF 30+):

You will be walking through open spaces at high altitudes; good sun protection is essential. Bring water-resistant sunscreen and lip balms.

Insect repellent:

Bring insect repellent with high Deet content, Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail in a hot and humid area.

Reusable and quick-drying travel towel:

We provide hand towels for drying your hands. Bring a small quick-dry towel to dry your face or shower.

Swimsuit (optional):

You may bring a swimsuit if you stay an extra day in Aguas Calientes.

Wet wipes – Tissues:

Bring wet wipes, tissues, toilet paper and hand gels to disinfect your hands during the hike.

Toothbrush:

Bring all your toiletries, make sure they are small and light (toothbrush, toothpaste, dry shampoo, deodorant, facial moisturizer, small soap).

Snack of the day:

• Energy bars (one or two a day)
• Mixed nuts
• Nuts
• Chocolates
• Beef jerky
• Electrolyte powder or tablets
• Candies
• Purification tablets or a water filter (optional)
• Tea bags or instant coffee (optional)

Contact With Machu Picchu Peru Travel