Cusco, Peru – 15 Tips For Your First Visit

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a must-visit destination that combines breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious food. (Hello ceviche!!)

I first visited in 2021 and have now been back 6 more times. I love Cusco that much!

Whether you’re heading off to hike the Inca Trail, soak in the stunning views, or savoring local delicacies, this magical city has something for everyone. I’m certain you’re going to love it!!

But like any destination, there are some key tips you should know to help ensure you have a smooth trip.

Here are my top tips to help you make the most of your time in Cusco!

1. The High Elevation – Be prepared!

Cusco sits at a whopping 11,000 feet above sea level, which means you’ll feel the altitude!

Stay Hydrated. Take it easy at first. The altitude is no joke.

Drink plenty of water, avoid overdoing it on alcohol (at least at first), and chew coca leaves to help your body adjust. Hotels and restaurants will offer coco leaf tea to help with the altitude as well. But keep in mind, the coco leaves are caffeinated so don’t chew the leaves or sip the tea right before bed or you’ll have trouble falling asleep!

You might need an Ibuprofen immediately for the altitude headache that will likely develop your first day.

If you’re worried about the elevation, don’t fret—altitude meds are available over the counter at any pharmacy in Cusco without a prescription. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Lastly, wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days—the high elevation means stronger UV rays than you might expect! I’ve seen people get serious burns that peeled and blistered on a cool, cloudy day.

2. Visit the four important Inca sites

Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, is surrounded by four must-visit archaeological sites:

1. Sacsayhuamán, a massive fortress with impressive stonework

2. Q’enqo, a mysterious site with carved rock chambers

3. Puka Pukara, a military outpost with scenic views

4. Tambomachay, known for its ceremonial water fountains

To make the most of your visit, purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) for access to all four sites.

Hiring a knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience by providing historical and cultural insights.

3. Stay in Style at Palacio Manac or Palacio del Inka

There are SO many beautiful hotels in Cusco, you truly can’t go wrong. But if you want to spurlge a little and treat yourself for a luxurious stay, you can’t go wrong with either Palacio Manac or Palacio del Inka.

Both offer top-notch service, beautiful rooms, and are perfectly located to explore the heart of Cusco. They truly know how to make you feel like royalty after a long day of adventuring.

Deciding between the two? Palacio Manac sits up on the hill overlooking Cusco and gives you beautiful views over the rooftops of the city. But you’ll have a short walk to the main square.

Palacio del Inka is absolutely luxurious but already down in the main square, not overlooking the city but within it.

4. Farm-to-Table Heaven at Organika

If you’re a foodie, Organika is a must! The farm-to-table meals are incredible, and my personal favorite is the goat cheese pizza (you’ve been warned—it’s so good, you’ll want to come back multiple times!).

All the ingredients come fresh from the Sacred Valley. And the cocktails here are superb!

5. Get Around with Uber or Taxis (But Be Ready to Walk)

Getting around Cusco is super affordable with Uber and taxis, but here’s the kicker—traffic can be a nightmare. With so many hills and steep steps, it’s often quicker to just walk.

Keep in mind, the altitude will leave you winded, so pace yourself. But hey, those views are totally worth it!

Pack light when wandering around the city & just know you’ll be climbing A LOT of stairs in Cusco. It’s pretty unavoidable!

6. Snap a Pic with Alpacas and Llamas (And Don’t Forget the Tip!)

You’ll spot women around Cusco offering photos with their adorable alpacas and llamas. Be aware—if you take a picture, they’ll expect a tip. It’s a fun way to capture a unique memory, just make sure to bring some small change to show your appreciation!

7. Best restuaurant in Cusco: Morena

If you love ceviche, Morena is the place to be. Their fresh seafood is mouthwatering, and the ceviche is truly some of the best I’ve had. You’ll want to stop by here after a long day of sightseeing to refuel.

This place is SUPER popular. One of the best known restaurants in Cusco so during dinner time or peak season, you’ll likely need a reservation in advance.

8. Coffee with a View at Cappuccino Cusco Cafe

For the best coffee in town, head to Cusco Cappuccino and snag a seat on their balcony. You’ll get stunning views of the city, and the coffee? It’s just as amazing as the scenery. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Address: Plaza de Armas, Portal de Comercio 141, Cusco 08002

9. Sip on Pisco – Peru’s National Drink

No trip to Peru is complete without trying Pisco, the national drink! Head to Museo del Pisco for a fun tasting or even a cocktail class.

I also highly recommend trying a pisco sour at Hanz—it’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

10. Green Point – A Plant-Based Gem

Even if you’re not vegan, you’ll love the vibes and the menu at Green Point. This plant-based restaurant offers fresh, creative dishes that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a perfect spot to relax, refuel, and enjoy some seriously delicious food.

11. Cuy – Yes, You Can Try Guinea Pig!

For the brave (and adventurous foodies!), cuy—or guinea pig—is a traditional dish you’ll find on many menus in Cusco. It’s a local delicacy, and if you’re feeling daring, give it a try!

12. Shop for Souvenirs at San Blas Market

Looking for the perfect souvenir?

Check out the markets near Jack’s Café and San Blas Church. You’ll find gorgeous alpaca sweaters, hand-crafted jewelry, and more. It’s a great place to pick up some authentic Cusco treasures!

13. Visit a local Animal Sanctuary

Just outside of Cusco, there’s an animal sanctuary that’s absolutely worth the visit. You can book a tour through Airbnb Experiences, and trust me—it’s an unforgettable way to get up close with some of the region’s wildlife.

Book your visit here.

Read: Incredible Airbnb Experiences in Cusco You Can’t Miss

14. The Qorikancha, or Sun Temple, was the most sacred site in the Inca Empire, dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Once covered in gold and filled with precious artifacts, it was the center of Incan religious ceremonies.

After the Spanish conquest, much of the temple was dismantled, and the Santo Domingo Convent was built on its foundations. Despite this, you can still see the incredible Incan stonework, which has withstood earthquakes that have damaged colonial structures.

Tip: Visit with a guide to appreciate the temple’s rich history, and don’t miss the museum below for more insights into Incan engineering and cosmology.

15. Plan Your Adventure with TreXperience

Whether you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail or explore the Sacred Valley, TreXperience is the company to trust.

They offer fantastic guided tours that will help you make the most of these unforgettable experiences.

And if you want to come to Peru with me personally, join the next Wanderlust Group Trip to Peru!!

The post Cusco, Peru – 15 Tips For Your First Visit appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Inca Trail Trek

Ultimate Peru + Inca Trail Trek
2023 Highlights: Week 2

After an amazing first week in Peru, I was thrilled to welcome my second group to Cusco and trek the Inca Trail for the third time, wheww!

Yet again, the week was full of belly laughs, amazing new friendships, jaw dropping views and overall adventure! I couldn’t feel more thankful to have shared this adventure with this fantastic group of people.

Here’s everything we got up to in Peru!

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Everyone began arriving in Cusco for the start of the trip!

This super high elevation city can be a doozy to fly into, sitting at a whopping 11,152 feet above sea level.

For those who arrived early, we visited a local Peruvian animal sanctuary.

Read: INCREDIBLE AIRBNB EXPERIENCES IN CUSCO, PERU YOU CAN’T MISS

That evening, we had a welcome at our stunning hotel, Palacio Manco Capac to meet one another and toast to our upcoming adventure.

After some wine, we headed to Hanz for our welcome dinner located right in Cusco’s main square.

Day 2: Cusco Full Day Tour

For our first full day in Cusco, we were joined by our local Peruvian guide, Edy!

We toured the Cusco Cathedral, the Sun Temple, Saqsaywaman ruins and more. It was a jam packed day of Incan history, beautiful ruins and many alpacas.

That evening, some of us opted for a tasting of Peru’s national drink, Pisco!

Day 3: Sacred Valley & Traditional Peruvian Village

We left the hills and elevation of Cusco to go lower into Peru’s stunning Sacred Valley. We started the day by visiting an view point overlooking the valley, then the Pisac ruins.

After our tour, we drove higher up to visit a remote rural community in Peru. Here we learned about traditional clothing, potato harvesting, traditional dances and so much more!

The altitude was intense but the views, food and people were all more than worth it.

We ended the day by shopping at the vibrant Pisac markets for all sorts of Peruvian handmade goods!

That evening we spent the night in a historic monastery that has been converted to a beautiful hotel.

Day 4: Salt Mines, Ruins, Monastery Stay

That morning, we had another day of beautiful blue skies and sunshine so we took advantage of the great weather to get some shots in the garden of our hotel.

We started off the morning in the beautiful town of Chinchero for shopping, coffee, empanadas and a ruin visit.

After, we visited a co-operative where local women come together to demonstrate their weaving and craft skills. Our host Nellie had a sharp sense of humor and made the experience for us!

When we finished our shopping, Edy gave us a super interesting tour around the Circular Inca ruins at Moray.

After the circle ruins, we visited the visually stunning Maras Salt Mines which have massively produced salt for more than 500 years predating the Inca Empire! 

For lunch, we ate at the oldest, historic restaurant in the Sacred Valley.

Tunupa is absolutely beautiful!

We ended the day with a visit to the town and Inca Ruins of Ollantaytambo. That night we had a pizza party in the hotel as we prepared and packed for the Inca Trail trek the following day!

Day 5: Start the Inca Trail

After breakfast in the hotel, we loaded up in the van to drive to the start of the Inca Trail.

We met our amazing crew of 20+ porters and had our duffel bags weighed to make sure they came in under the regulated weight.

Once the bags were weighed, we set off with just our daypacks.

The morning was super scenic and an easy beginning to the trek.

Read: 26 TIPS FOR TREKKING THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

We passed ruins, wildlife and beautiful foliage until we arrived at our lunch site where TreXperience had everything ready for us!

After lunch, we continued our hike until we reached the bar located along the trail. Never have I seen a group throw a dance party before but this fun-loving group did exactly that! We ordered pisco sours and danced like crazy for a full 40 minutes! I couldn’t believe the stamina of this group because Day 1 is LONG!

We all agreed a “core memory” was formed at that dance party on the Inca Trail <3

Totally unforgettable!

That night we arrived at camp, exhausted after a long day of hiking, to all our tents set up and a fantastic dinner prepared by our chef.

Day 6: Dead Woman’s Pass

It was an early morning wake up on the second day of the trek!

At 4:30am the porters came to our tents with coca tea.

The longest, most grueling day of the trek includes not one but TWO difficult mountain passes. The most famous of which is known as Dead Woman’s Pass at a whopping 13,828 ft, far surpassing Machu Picchu in elevation.

I was so proud of the group for tackling this challenging day with such a positive attitude!

After tackling Dead Woman’s Pass, an insanely steep downhill section of stairs leads to the eventual lunch spot.

After a big meal and a brief afternoon rest, we set off to tackle the second pass!

It was quite the accomplishment when we made it to camp before dark!

Our chef prepared us another amazing dinner before we called it an early night.

Day 7: Hike the Cloud Forest

The third day on the trail is the most scenic and the easiest!

After a long day on Dead Woman’s Pass, hiking the cloud forest felt SO easy by comparison.

We got to camp by lunch and could enjoy the views, even take a nap, ha!

Read: 20 PHOTOS TO PUT PERU’S INCA TRAIL ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

Day 8: Machu Picchu & Panoramic Train

For our final day on the trail, we had a SUPER early wake up call!

After days of perfect weather, we did have some rain while hiking to the famous Sungate. When we arrived it was too foggy to see Machu Picchu Mountain but as we drew closer the fog began to clear!

We started our tour of this amazing World Wonder and came back up to the viewpoint once the fog had fully cleared.

It was a beautiful morning!

We had lunch together in town before boarding a first class car on Peru’s scenic panoramic train.

Inca Trail TrekTh

To join a group trip, check out the “Travel With Me” section!
Past group trips include: dog sledding in Minnesota, Southwest USA, Sail Croatia, backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail, Christmas in NYC, Iceland, Morocco, Turkey, Ireland, and more!

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The post Ultimate Peru + Inca Trail Trek 2023 Highlights: Week 2 appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Peru’s Rainbow Mountain
16 Tips For Your First Visit

In recent years, Peru’s Rainbow Mountain has had an explosion of popularity among tourists!

But often times, people aren’t well prepared for the altitude, distance, weather and early morning start.

So if you plan to visit this iconic destination, here’s 16 things to know for your first visit!

You can watch my 16 tips for Peru’s Rainbow Mountain here:

1. Located 3.5 hours from Cusco, Peru

This super popular day trip is a further drive from Cusco than most people realize!

Expect to leave super early in the morning and be gone most of the day.

Most tours will drive for 1.5 -2 hours then stop for breakfast before driving the rest of the way.

And on the way back, your drive will most likely be broken up with a lunch stop as well.

2. Located at SUPER high elevation

Rainbow Mountain sits at 17,060 feet which is almost the elevation of Mount Everest Base Camp!

The air will feel thin. You will likely be winded walking at such high elevation. It’s also possible you could feel dizzy, lightheaded or get a headache.

If you’ve never been at high altitude before, it can be a little bit of shock!

3. Acclimatize in Cusco for a few days first

Since Rainbow Mountain is at such high elevation, you don’t want to visit right when you land in Peru. You’ll feel a lot better if you take a few days to acclimatize and let your body adjust to the altitude.

If possible, book Rainbow Mountain as your last excursion in Peru to give yourself plenty of time to acclimatize.

And I wouldn’t suggest doing Rainbow Mountain right before trekking the Inca Trail.

4. To avoid altitude sickness, chew coca leaves and take altitude meds

You can easily buy over the counter altitude meds in Cusco for very cheap!

Some people prefer to get a prescription at home before their trip, either works. But you’ll be able to pick them up in Cusco faster since no appointment or prescription is needed.

And do as the locals do…chew coca leaves! They will help immensely. You can also get them in hard candy form if you prefer.

5. Bathrooms along the trail for 2 soles each

As Rainbow Mountain becomes more and more popular, the facilities are getting better and better. There used to be no bathrooms at all. Then there were very basic, porta-potty bathrooms.

Now the government has built 3 nice bathroom facilities along the trek with flushing toilets, sinks, paper and an attendant.

Just know you’ll have to pay 2 soles per use! (Roughly 50 cents USD.)

6. Can also buy drinks, snacks and souvenirs from locals along the way

If you need a snack or extra water along the trail, don’t worry!

There are plenty of opportunities to buy chips, candies and drinks along the way.

Vendors will also be selling sweaters, hats and mittens in case you don’t have enough warm layers!

7. You can pay extra to ride a horse part way but we walked

The first and last 15 minutes of the hike are the hardest. And regardless if you plan to use a horse, the start and ending section have to be done on foot.

Some people choose to go via horseback for roughly $25-$29 USD.

However, we decided to enjoy the hike by foot!

8. Roughly a 3 hour round trip hike to get there

It will take you roughly 90 minutes to reach Rainbow Mountain. (Possibly 2 hours if you go at a slower pace!)

And another hour or so to hike back down.

9. Wear good shoes, the terrain is rough!

You’ll be crossing over muddy roads, rough rocky terrain and encountering all types of weather.

So make sure you have sturdy shoes on for the hike.

This pair is one of my favorites! You can find all my hiking and travel gear on my Amazon storefront.

Hiking Boots

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10. Be prepared for all kinds of weather

We had fog, hail, cold winds and bright, sunny skies all in one day.

We got sweaty on the hike and also cold while sitting up at the top.

Bring some light layers so you can adjust throughout the day!

11. Pack light layers, it will be cold at the top

Remember, you are at the elevation of Mount Everest Base Camp.. it will be cold at the top!

You may want gloves and a hat as well.

12. Small bills to tip for pictures

You will see many alpacas and llamas along the route to Rainbow Mountain. If you want to take a picture with them, the locals will expect a small tip in exchange.

13.Bus tour from Cusco for about $35

If you’re traveling on a budget, you can get awesome deals on day trips to Rainbow Mountain!

It’s a bargain but just take note, everything takes longer with the bigger groups.

14. Use Airbnb Experience for private tours

Since we had limited time and wanted to see Rainbow Mountain without the crowds, we decided to book a private tour for a more intimate experience.

This is the exact private tour we booked!

It was just me, Tessa and our local guide, Coco.

15. Private tour for better timing

Instead of leaving at 3:30am, we could be flexible as a private group and chose to leave at 4:30am.

Even leaving an hour later, we still beat all the tour buses! A small private car can go a lot faster on the bumpy, windy roads than a large tourist bus.

Plus we didn’t have to sit through all the hotel pick ups and drop offs.

So even with plenty of time spent at Rainbow Mountain, we got back around 2pm. Overall, it was a lot less waiting around for a group and we got to totally be on our own schedule.

16. Our local host, Coco was wonderful!

The trip included breakfast & lunch. Coco took so many great photos and videos.

When he picked us up at our hotel in Cusco, he had blankets and pillows in the car waiting for us so we could sleep on the drive there.

It truly felt like going to Rainbow Mountain with a local friend!

You may want to invest in travel insurance before your trip!
 I recommend World Nomads.

More on Peru:

• 26 TIPS FOR TREKKING THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
• INCREDIBLE AIRBNB EXPERIENCES IN CUSCO, PERU YOU CAN’T MISS
• MACHU PICCHU TREK – 4 DAY ITINERARY WITH TREXPERIENCE ON THE INCA TRAIL
• 20 PHOTOS TO PUT PERU’S INCA TRAIL ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

Peru’s Rainbow Mountain

The post Peru’s Rainbow Mountain – 16 Tips For Your First Visit appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Incredible Airbnb Experiences in Cusco, Peru You Can’t Miss

Incredible Airbnb Experiences in
Cusco, Peru You Can’t Miss

After traveling the world for 5 years, I can confidently say Peru is one of my favorite countries! Everything from the food to the culture to the history… it’s a magnificent place to explore!

And if you have an upcoming trip to Peru, then this post is for you!

After multiple trips to this beautiful country, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite experiences.

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and have meaningful connections with locals, then consider booking one of the following Airbnb Experiences.

I have personally done each of these experiences and LOVED them all.

Nature Walk with Alpacas and Llamas

This Airbnb Experience was an absolute highlight of our time in Peru.

It features endless mountain views, delicious food and great conversation with local hosts.

We were picked up at our hotel in Cusco then drove one hour towards the Sacred Valley.

(Transportation isn’t included in the price but it’s easily added on to your booking!)

Upon arrival, we met our lovely hosts in addition to all the llamas and alpacas who would be joining us on our morning hike.

We set off across an absolutely stunning scenic path through the Sacred Valley overlooking mountains, lakes and endless fields of wildflowers.

In total, we walked for roughly 4 hours including stops for photos, tea and private time overlooking the mountains.

Reynaldo was an excellent host! He went above and beyond to help capture photos for us, share information about the area and his culture.

We also immensely enjoyed the lunch break overlooking the valley.

If you have the evening free, I highly suggest staying in their scenic eco-camp afterwards.

Book this Airbnb Experience here.

Rainbow Mountain Private Tour

Rainbow Mountain has become a massive tourist attraction in recent years.

So when booking a tour, we decided to spend a little extra money and go for a private tour with a local. That way, we could arrive at Rainbow Mountain before the crowds and big tour buses.

Most large group tours leave Cusco at 3:30am and don’t arrive back until 5pm. But with a private tour, we left at 4:30am and got back around 2pm. The private car can go much faster on the winding roads to Rainbow Mountain. Plus, you don’t have to wait for all the hotel pick ups and drop offs. It’s much faster and overall, a really nice experience in a private group.

Furthermore, our host Coco was WONDERFUL. He was on time, friendly and super informative. He greeted us with blankets and pillows so we could nap in the car on the early morning drive there.

And when we arrived at the trailhead, he had a trekking pole for each of us.

Both breakfast and lunch were included at the same restaurant.

And while at Rainbow Mountain, he was so patient and helped us take plenty of great photos and videos. Coco also encouraged us to have free time by ourselves to sit and take in the views. At no point did we feel rushed.

It was very much like having a friend take you personally to Rainbow Mountain!

Book this Airbnb experience here.

Visit A Local Animal Sanctuary

As an animal lover, I absolutely adored this experience.

Albert is a very passionate host and has made it his personal mission to rescue as many abused, injured or captive animals as possible with the goal of releasing as many as possible back into the wild.

The money from your booking goes to feed, house and tend to all the animals that pass through the shelter.

You will get to see pumas, condors, macaws and many other Peruvian animals in various stages of recovery.

Book this Airbnb Experience here.

Heading to Peru? For travel insurance, I recommend World Nomads.

More on Peru:

• 26 TIPS FOR TREKKING THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
• MACHU PICCHU TREK – 4 DAY ITINERARY WITH TREXPERIENCE ON THE INCA TRAIL
• 20 PHOTOS TO PUT PERU’S INCA TRAIL ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

Incredible Airbnb Experiences in Cusco, Peru You Can’t Miss

Shop my Amazon storefront for all my travel and photography gear!

Incredible Airbnb Experiences in Cusco, Peru You Can’t Miss

The post Incredible Airbnb Experiences in Cusco, Peru You Can’t Miss appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

tips for trekking the inca trail

26 Tips for Trekking the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

In mid April, my best friend and I conquered the Inca Trail with TreXperience and it was one of the most rewarding (and challenging!) things I have ever done in my travels!

The entire trip from start to finish was so well handled by TreXperience. I can’t recommend them highly enough!

You can read all about the full experience here: MACHU PICCHU TREK – 4 DAY ITINERARY WITH TREXPERIENCE ON THE INCA TRAIL

So if you’re thinking about trekking the Inca Trail, here’s 26 tips for your first time!

Watch the full video recap of my top tips for trekking to Machu Picchu:

Don’t forget to invest in high altitude travel insurance before the trek! I recommend World Nomads.

1. Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days before the trek

Cusco is actually at a higher altitude than Machu Picchu. So just spending time in the city is a great way to prepare for the trek! It’s hard to predict how your body will react to higher altitudes, everyone has such different responses!

So the best preparation is just extra time spent acclimatizing.

2. Only carry your essentials

Most hotels in Cusco let you store your luggage for several days during the trek.

Only bring the absolute essentials with you on the trail. Anything extra will weigh you down and feel super heavy at high altitude! Furthermore, there are strict limits to the weight allowed in your pack to protect the hard-working porters.

You can see my essential packing list below! Keep in mind, your tour company may or may not include the sleeping bags, poles and sleeping mats.

3. Need passport for checkpoints – store it in a plastic bag so it doesn’t get wet

Absolutely do not forget your passport for the Inca Trail or you will not be allowed to enter. If your permits were booked with an older passport, you’ll need to have a copy of your old passport printed out and taped inside your new passport.

It’s a good idea to protect your passport from the elements. Have it safely stored inside a plastic bag.

4. Chew coca leaves to relieve altitude sickness and for energy

Coca leaves are easy to find at hotels, restaurants and on the trail. They will be everywhere so take advantage of them. These leaves really help with energy, altitude sickness..everything! Porters chew them 24/7 on the trail. They are super inexpensive and a great remedy.

5. Coca leaf candies are my favorite- taste better and super cheap at drug stores in Cusco

Chewing on raw coca leaves isn’t my favorite to be honest. But I sure do love the candies which are also helpful! You can find them in drug stores all over Cusco and for sale along the trail.

I recommend bringing one bag per person on the trail.

6. Plastic bag in your backpack to store wet and dirty clothes

Clothing that gets wet from sweat, rain or waterfall dips will have a hard time drying at high altitude. Once something gets wet, it’s likely it will stamp damp through the duration of the trip. So pack a plastic bag and be ready to separate any wet clothing from your remaining dry gear.

7. Your duffel must be under 7 kilos including sleeping bag- pack light!

Your trekking company should provide you with a large duffel which your porters will carry.

You will not be able to pack excessive clothing or items and still come in under the weight limit. Your bag must be under 7 kilos/15 pounds with all your gear including your sleeping bag and mat. This is to protect the porters who until recently, had zero protection and rights. It’s crucial they only are given a manageable weight to carry.

People on our trip packed things like a book but never once touched it because the days are so long. Once you get to camp, you’ll pretty much just collapse. You will likely need less on trail than you think.

It doesn’t have to be expensive, name brand gear but it’s worth investing in gear that is lightweight and packable. A puffer that packs down small and rain gear that rolls up small is very helpful!

8. Pack a headlight and get ready for some early mornings

You will have several mornings where you wake up at 3:30am. It will still be dark when you begin hiking or while you’re getting ready and having breakfast. It is absolutely essential you have a head lamp with extra batteries.

LED Beanie Hat with Light

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9. Easiest to use a hydration bladder – the porters will refill it each day

You’ll need to be drinking a ton of water at this altitude and I find that using a hydration bladder is the best way to make sure you’re consuming a lot on the trail.

The porters will boil water at camp each night and refill your bottle so you only have to carry one bladder and one water bottle at a time.

Hydration Bladder

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10. Train by going up and down stairs

You may not be able to prepare for how your body will react to the altitude but you can start taking the stairs every chance you get. The Inca Trail is 28 miles long and includes over 10,000 stair steps.

So do yourself a favor and begin taking the stairs! If you can, hop on a stairclimber as well.

11. Clip your toenails for downhill so they aren’t pressing into your shoes and pop off

There are A LOT of downhill stairs on the Inca Trail. Going downhill can be quite difficult on your knees, joints and toenails. Keep your toenails cut short so they aren’t pressed against your shoes.

It’s not uncommon to lose a toenail on the trail!

12. Always be rain prepared

The weather can change in an instant and you don’t want to spend the trip damp and cold. Have your rain gear easily accessible so if the clouds open up, you’re ready to go right away!

You also may want to look into weatherproofing your camera or at least having it in a waterproof case/bag.

We were blessed with good weather on our trip but it’s not uncommon to be hiking in the rain.

Backpacking Poncho

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13. Ear plugs at camp if you’re a light sleeper

I slept SO well on the Inca Trail because the days are so long and strenuous.

So by the time my head hit the pillow, I was out!

Add in the fact that I didn’t have cell service so we were totally unplugged and not scrolling our phones at night, I slept like a baby.

However I have read other tips online saying people struggled to sleep at camp because of noisy campers. You will be sharing the campsite with all the trekking groups so camp can be quite a busy place.

It’s best to have ear plugs in case your tent winds up next to someone who snores because you’re going to need all the sleep you can get to conquer the Inca Trail!

14. Altitude prescription meds

You don’t need a prescription to buy Diamox in Peru. You will be able to find it at every drugstore in Cusco. Ask for ACETAZOLAMIDA -Acetazolamide (Brand Name: Diamox).

It is expected to feel some common side effects like dizziness, lightheadedness and a tingling feeling.

For my first Inca Trail trek I didn’t take Diamox but I did while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and found it to be very helpful. I would suggest taking it!

However, be sure to take it right away in the morning and then the 2nd half at lunch. It will make you have to pee often. So if you take it too late in the day, you’ll be waking up all night to pee. And as I’ve already said, you’re going to need all the sleep you can get!

15. Camping stores in Cusco if you forget anything

Cusco absolutely caters to the fact that hikers from all over the world are pouring into the city to conquer the Inca Trail. There are gear stores everywhere ranging from inexpensive local shops to a North Face and Patagonia in the city center.

So if you forget something, don’t panic!

You can buy sunscreen, bug spray, hydration bladders, head lamps… anything you would need!

16. Pay to use toilets along the trail

Expect to pay 1 soles (about 25 cents USD) to use a local villagers toilet. Just bear in mind, they will likely not have toilet paper. So pack some or bring compostable wipes. (You’ll want wipes any way to wipe clean in your tent at the end of each day!)

They may not have change so have small bills ready before you begin the trek.

Wipes

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17. Buy drinks and snacks at little villages along the way

If you want to have snacks on the trail, no worries. You can buy gatorades, pringles, ice cream even! Locals will set up little stands with snacks.

Keep in mind, the snacks get more expensive as you climb further because it’s more work for them to transport things along the trail.

18. Bug spray

If you’d like, you can easily buy bug spray for cheap in Cusco so you don’t have to travel with it!

But you’ll want to have bug spray with you during the trek.

19. Book with an ethical, local company. I recommend TreXperience.

Not all tour operators on the Inca Trail have the same dedication to looking after their porters and guides like TreXperience. It’s a local company that actually treats its porters fairly.

I can’t recommend this company highly enough! I wouldn’t even consider booking with any other company.

20. Porters do everything for you- tip them well! Have cash ready for tipping on 3rd night

You will be amazed at how hard the porters are working. They do just as much work as you (hiking the entire trail!!) but also set up the tents, prepare all your meals, clean up after you…everything! They work incredibly hard and get paid very little.

Tipping is standard and expected on the Inca Trail. If your porters do a great job (which I have no doubt they will!) I suggest tipping more than the suggested amount below.

Tipping Expectations:

• 1 chef in charge of preparing all your meals: between 80 and 120 soles
• Porters in charge of all camping equipment: 60 to 80 soles for each of them
• The amounts are the total given by the whole group, not per person. Each guest should tip around 120 to 150 soles to tip the whole team of porters and chefs.
• Tipping your tour guide is usually done on the last day after Machu Picchu; this is your personal appreciation and is usually around 5 to 10% of the tour price or around 60 to 100 soles per person

21. Most porters speak Quechuan not English or Spanish

Surprise the porters and know how to say a few phrases like “hello” “thank you” and “good morning”.

This small gesture will mean a lot!

• Sulpayki (pronounced: sool-pay-ki) means thank you
• Munay (pronounced: moon-eye): meaning “love” You could say it to someone whose outfit you love, or someone who does you a favor etc.
• Somaq mihuna (pronounced: so-mak meehooona) means “this is amazing food.” A phrase you can tell your Inca Trail chef!

22. Positive mindset is everything on the trail.

This trek will be hard. It’s going to be difficult even if you trained for it. Knowing it will be tough but you still can do it is key. Have positive mantras ready to go when things get hard!

If possible, surround yourself with positive people who will motivate you on the trek

You can do it! Just take breaks and go slowly. Keep telling yourself you can do it! You really can!

23. Layers!! Shorts and thermals

On the first day, you will likely want shorts for the morning afternoon hike. You’ll still be at a relatively low altitude so it will be warmer. As you climb higher, things will cool down.

That being said, evenings are COLD. Make sure you have proper warm layers for nighttime and early mornings.

24. Pack sandals/comfy shoes for camp

After a long day of hiking, you will want to change out of your hiking shoes immediately.

Your feet may be swollen and sweaty. And it feels amazing to ditch your hiking boots for cozy sandals with socks. Get comfortable as soon as you get to camp! Change into dry, warm clothes.

25. TreXperience lets you rent gear so you don’t have to fly with any

Flying with a sleeping bag or mat can be rather inconvenient.

I suggest renting any large gear from your tour operator to save on space. This will also ensure your gear is suitable for the correct temperatures etc.

26. Cheap laundry in Cusco for after the trek so you don’t have to keep traveling with dirty/sweaty clothes

When you get back to Cusco, you’ll likely have a bunch of sweaty, dirty clothes from the Inca Trail.

You can find laundry places on nearly every street where you can drop off your clothes and they’ll wash it for you. It’s cheap and a quick fix to packing wet, dirty clothes.

Make sure you invest in travel insurance before departing on your trek. I use World Nomads.

tips for trekking the inca trail

To join a group trip, check out the “Travel With Me” section!
Past group trips include: dog sledding in Minnesota, Southwest USA, Sail Croatia, backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail, Christmas in NYC, Iceland, Morocco, Turkey, Ireland, and more!

Shop my Amazon storefront for all my travel essentials & hiking gear!

The post 26 Tips for Trekking the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Machu Picchu Trek – 4 Day Itinerary with
TreXperience on the Inca Trail

During the month of April I had the opportunity of trekking along the Inca Trail for 4 days and 3 nights with the fantastic outfitter, TreXperience. It was my first high altitude trek and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience or a better company to go with, it was incredible!

So here is the full recap of our trip.

And be sure to check out the Tiktok I created about this bucket list experience!

Prior to the TreXperience trip

Leading up to the trek, we were provided packing lists and all relevant information. Everything from permits, train tickets, transfers and bus tickets were all handled by TreXperience. All we had to do was fly into Cusco and they took care of the rest.

The night before our tour we all met at the TreXperience office to go over all the information we needed for the trip.

We confirmed our hotel pick ups, received our duffels to pack and chatted about the itinerary. Our guides Robinzon and Jonah did a great job preparing us for the week ahead.

Day 1

My friend Corbin and I got picked up at our hotel in Cusco at 4:30am. We had been staying at the Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels on the top of the hill overlooking the town. By the way, I highly recommend this hotel!

Check out the highlights of our stay here:

All transfers are included in the cost of the trip with TreXpereince. It’s door to door service from your accommodation in Cusco!

It was about a 3 hour drive to the small charming town of Piscacucho where we had an included breakfast.

We ate, bought some coca leaves and introduced ourselves to our fellow travelers. Then with full stomachs, we headed off to the start of the Inca Trail.

The morning was a rather leisurely hike. Our guides showed us different plants along the trail that are used to dye clothes or heal a variety of ailments etc. We passed by rivers, little villages and other tour groups as we went.

There are bathrooms along the trail that you can pay to use so have some spare change. I also recommend traveling with these compostable wipes.

After two hours, we hit Patallacta, the first of the Inca ruin sites along the route. The views were jaw-dropping!

Another two hours and we arrived at our lunch spot. And what a lunch it was!

Never have I had such great food while on a camping or backpacking trip. The private chef, waiter and porters really go above and beyond to deliver a luxurious camping experience. Each meal was 3+ courses and a heaping pile of fresh food.

After a much needed post lunch nap, we continued on!

One thing to note: In the briefing we were informed that day one would all be easy. And until lunch, it is. But following lunch, there is a lot of uphill climbing to do. I find it helps to be mentally prepared when you have a steep climb coming. So get ready to start climbing! And don’t be too hard on yourself if you find day one challenging as well!

After a scenic but uphill 2 hour hike, you’ll arrive at the first campsite! Per usual, the porters pampered us completely by having everything set up and ready to go: tents, sleeping bags, air mattress.. the works! We briefly went around and introduced ourselves to the amazing crew. We had a whopping 21 porters!

Pro tip: Bring camp shoes so you can change out of your hiking shoes for the night. After a very filling dinner, we were all ready for bed after such a big day and an early morning.

I lay awake that first night slightly nervous for the huge day ahead because we would be hiking 10+ hours up into the clouds at nearly 14,000 feet. Unsure how the altitude would effect me, I was a bit uneasy after hearing some horror stories from the trail.

Although it was cold outside, I fell asleep cozy and warm. The TreXperience sleeping bags really lock the heat in. I highly recommend renting their gear so you don’t have to fly with anything.

Pro tip: Sleep with your clothes inside your sleeping bag. So if it’s cold in the morning, you’ll be putting on warm clothes. It makes the morning a lot more easy if your clothes aren’t cold.

Day 2

4:30am there is a noise outside our tent. “Good morning. Coca leaf tea?”

One of the porters has brought 2 cups of piping hot tea to our tent. We get ready to head to breakfast while the porters tear down the tents and pack everything up. Soon we are off on the trail!

Day 2 is well known for being the longest, most difficult day on the Inca Trail. But I’m relieved to find it’s also my favorite views yet. Especially in the afternoon when we clear the tree line and have an uninterrupted view of the mountains.

The highest point on the trail is Dead Woman’s Pass, nearly 6,000 feet ABOVE Machu Picchu!

It takes 4 hours to reach the pass. And as we begin the summit, I go slowly. I’m feeling the air thin out but I’m not feeling like I might vomit or anything. The altitude is tiring but my only symptom is an occasional light headache and getting winded easily.

This day is hard but the views make it worth it. I began the day at the front but found I much preferred being at the end. I could pause to take pictures without feeling like a line of people behind me were about to trample over me. It also allowed me to feel alone in nature at times instead of hiking in a single file line.

There were times I wanted to chat and socialize with the other hikers and times I want to get lost in thought and just enjoy the view in solitude.

Highlight of the trip: When I was near the final summit of Dead Woman’s Pass, I looked up and there stood my best friend, patiently waiting. Although he had been first in the group and I had been last, he waited so we could summit the highest point together. When we reached the top and looked back down at all we had just conquered together, I felt tears welling in my eyes. What an accomplishment. And how special we did it together!

After Dead Woman’s Pass, there was a lot of steep downhill. A welcome change after the steep incline of a summit! You may want to use your trekking poles here to protect your knees.

Pro tip: Make sure you trim your toenails super short before the trek! If your nails extend over your toe at all, they will press against your shoes on the downhill sections and can be painful or even result in your nail popping off.

We had one more uphill section before we got to have a hard-earned lunch! I was shocked at how much the porters do for each guest. Each meal was fully set up when we arrived. Our tents and sleeping bags were always waiting for us… the porters carry way more weight, hike faster than us and still have everything done before we ever get there! (So tip them well, they deserve it!)

After our lunch, the porters surprised us by laying out the sleeping pads so we could all take a 30 minute rest/nap. It was so thoughtful!!

Then we had the second summit for the day. And whewww, it felt hard after already doing Dead Woman’s Pass… but we did it!

What I liked about Dead Woman’s Pass was you always knew how much further you had to go, you could see the shape of the woman in the mountain straight above you that we had to cross. With the second summit of the day, I kept thinking we were done…. only to round a corner and see another incline.

So just be mentally prepared that the second summit takes a long time and winds it’s way up the mountain. You won’t know when the end is or how much further you’ve got to go.

After many steps and some seriously breathtaking views, we reached another Inca lookout point. (Also spectacular!) But just then, it started to rain. Fortunately TreXperience provides everyone with ponchos. I had also brought my own.

Pro tip: Make sure you’re always rain ready! It will be a miserable trip if all your things getting soaking wet with no way to dry them. And being wet will make you really cold.

Shop my poncho and waterproof day bag here:

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Packable Hiking Backpack

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After we had accomplished both summits, we had lots of downhill hiking which was lovely. At this altitude, the trees stop growing so the views are just pure mountains and clouds. It’s amazing.

Our guides surprised us with one more stop… a spectacular abandoned Inca village with amazing views… but it meant more stairs.

At first I was frustrated, “MORE STAIRS?!“ I thought to myself. We had been told we were done with any uphill climbing and my tired body did not appreciate this surprise. However a positive mindset on the trail is everything, so after a few encouraging words from my best friend who is some kind of robot I swear, (he seemed to never got tired!) we set off for the ruins.

And our guides were right, they were beautiful and worth the extra climb.

It was an added bonus that we could see our campsite from the Inca village!

After such a long day and sooo many hours of hiking, it was very motivating to see the finish line in site! There in the distance were our cute little tents which held my comfy sleeping mat and sleeping bag… and you can only imagine how good that sounded just then!! We finished off the day strong!

Despite the challenges, it ended up being one of my favorite days of the trek. Dinner was of course delicious again. TreXperience really knocks it out of the park with the food. It felt so nice to change out of our hiking boots and into our comfy camp shoes.

That night we fell asleep early with joyful feelings of accomplishment.

Waking up to use the bathroom in the night can be a surprising treat at this campsite. I unzipped my tent and my jaw dropped! What a view!! The stars at this campsite are INSANE!

Day 3

We got to sleep in until 5:30am today, ha!

Day 3 is the most leisurely day of the trek. Only 5 hours of hiking until lunch… then that’s our campsite for the day!! We couldn’t believe it… no long hill uphill hike after lunch?!

The hike was nothing short of breathtaking. Mountains everywhere and perfectly preserved Inca walls, tunnels and paths. There is something so magical about walking the very same route this ancient civilization once used.

When we got to the campsite, my jaw dropped! Our tent was placed right next to a huge drop off with a spectacular view.

Pro tip: This is one of the few campsites that has a shower. However there isn’t a great way to dry your hair at this high altitude and nights are cold. So you may want to rinse off your body but not wash your hair!

We were served lunch in our glamping tent.. again delicious! Then we had the option of joining for 20 minute hike to an Inca sight and waterfall.

Pro tip: If your guide doesn’t offer this, ask! I highly recommend it. But TreXperience for sure includes it. So book with them!

The hike was beautiful. The ruins were expansive and almost everyone jumped in the freezing cold water for a dip!

Corbin and I took our sweet time climbing back up to camp (again it’s a lot of uphill through the ruins) and exploring the abandoned site.

We took photos and it was so nice to go at such a leisurely pace. We wandered, sat and chatted and enjoyed it immensely.

Eventually we made our way back to camp for some downtime before dinner. (I feel like a broken record here but yep… you guessed it! Another amazing meal!)

Pro tip: This was the first time since we left breakfast one day 1 that anyone had any kind of service. There is a tower near the campsite. However if it can wait, I suggest you keep your phone on airplane mode to savor the rarity of being offline

That night after dinner, we compiled all the tips for the porters, waiter, assistant chef and head chef. (Our two guides we would tip the last day.) You have to be ready to tip cash on the third night because the porters pack up and head back early on the 4th morning and you don’t see them again. They board a train back rather than going to Machu Picchu. All your duffels are brought to the TreXperience office for you to pick up at the end of the trip.

Pro tip: Your tour company should provided a suggested tipping amount. We tipped extra because the porters work SO hard. Many without any kind of insurance. But be prepared with cash.

Day 4

The final day is the earliest wake up call of all!

3:20am the porters came to our tent offering coca leaves. Part of the reason the wake up call is so early is because the porters have to pack down and catch the one train back. If they miss it, they have to wait a whole extra day! We had been informed to pack our bags the night before, so we were ready to go right away.

Breakfast was a to-go bag which you can sit and eat at the checkpoint. All the other tour companies meet at the gate to the trail and everyone waits for it to be opened.

If you’re down there by 3:45, you’ll still be waiting over an hour. So I ate my breakfast there, brushed my teeth and got ready for the day there instead of at my tent. It gave me more time to sleep and something to do while we waited. Our guides informed us it’s always kind of a race to get to Machu Picchu first. But truthfully, I don’t understand why.

Once everyone does the first morning hike to the sun gate (where you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu) everyone pauses to wait there anyway. Then when you arrive at the actual entrance, there is more waiting in line. And tourists have already arrived inside so it’s not like you’re beating much of a rush. So there really is no reason to race or stress.

Don’t spend your last morning on the trail in a panic that you’ll be late or somehow miss Machu Picchu, you won’t. And it’s more enjoyable to take occasional breaks than to sprint through the whole last hike. (Which is still quite challenging and ends in a steep uphill climb again!)

We slowed down a bit after racing through most of the morning to savor the views and capture these photos.

It was truly spectacular when we saw this world wonder!

Just be prepared, after spending 4 days on the trail with almost no other humans and having entire Inca compounds entirely to yourself, the crowds at Machu Picchu can be quite jarring.

There will be people waiting in line for pictures, large tour buses pulling up and many tour groups shuffling along. It’s still amazing and worth the visit, don’t get me wrong.

Just manage your expectations because nothing beats having the Inca sites to yourself on the trail.

Pro tip: After 4 days of hiking, you might want one nice thing to take a picture in at Machu Picchu. I packed a hat and alpaca sweater I had bought in Cusco.

Our guide Robinzon escorted us around the site and shared interesting facts about the once thriving yet very mysterious site.

We saw plenty of llamas and even a wild chinchilla.

TreXperience handled everything expertly. We got our tickets to Machu Picchu included and the bus ticket into the nearby town Aquilantes.

So we all boarded the bumpy, winding bus into town to go have lunch at a restaurant. We toasted pisco sours and beers to the amazing trek. Then, we thanked and tipped our guides. (Most companies say 10%-15% of the tour cost.)

After that, we had some free time to wander the small town before our train departed. So Corbin and I got massages for just $20 and it was worth every penny to have our sore hiking muscles rubbed!

Eventually, it was time to board the train. (Again, all included and handled by TreXperience!) It was a beautiful journey back on the glass top Vistadome train. There were a few cultural performances on the train and even a Peruvian fashion show you could shop.

After a couple hours, we arrived at the train station and a TreXperience driver was there waiting for us. He led us to the van and drove us the remaining distance to Cusco. We picked up our luggage from the TreXperience office and all got dropped at our hotels. We were exhausted but so happy from our grand adventure.

I truly cannot recommend this company enough. If you’re going to do the trek, I would book with TreXperience. Not only because they do an excellent job but because after talking to the porters from a variety of companies, they treat their employees the best and are locally owned. If you’re going to travel, support locals whenever possible!

Tips for trekking the Inca Trail:

Stay tuned on the Travel With Me Page – I’ll be launching the Inca Trail trek as a group trip soon!

Absolute essentials for the Classic Inca Trail hike:

• Valid, original Passport (a copy will not be accepted)
• Passport must be at least 6 months valid to enter and exit Peru.
• Valid Student Card (if you booked as a student)
• Hiking boots (light, comfortable and broken in)
• A good quality daypack (light, small and cozy)
• Water storage for at least 2 liters; either a camel bag or water bottle(s)
• Trekking poles (you can rent from TreXperience)

What to put in the daypacks:

Below is a list of items to keep with you at all times in your backpack. Remember, you will be carrying this with you every day of the trek, so we bring a good quality daypack, light and comfortable.

It is important to note that due to local regulations, your backpack should not exceed 25L. All larger bags can not be taken into Machu Picchu and will need to be stored outside the gates.

• Hat and sunglasses
• Rain gear
• Warm layers (fleece / long-sleeved tops)
• Sun cream, bug spray
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper
• Personal medication
• Band-aids, moleskin
• Camera, extra batteries
• Head Torch
• Additional snacks, power bars, chocolate
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips (small change helps pay to use the villagers’ toilets on the first day)

What to put in the duffle bags:

TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag to pack any items that you do not need to keep with you during the day. The porters will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. Please note this bag should weigh a maximum of 7 kg, including your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring/rent one). These two items weigh approximately 3 kg together (2 kilos sleeping bag, 1-kilo air pad). During the Inca Trek, you will travel through different temperatures as you climb/descend; it can also be cold at night when at the campsite. Therefore, layers work best!.

Duffle bags will be provided at our office during the safety briefing held the day before.

• Sleeping bag for Inca trail (can be rented)
• Air mattress for Inca trail (can be rented )
• Some light, comfortable shoes for the camp
• Warm jacket, hat, and gloves for Inca trail
• 4 t-shirts (wicking t-shirts are best)
• 2-3 hiking pants/trousers
• 4 sets of undergarments
• 4 sets of hiking socks
• 1 Fleece
• 1 Warm, down jacket for the coldest nights
• Quick-dry towel
• Soap
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and paste
• Face moisturizer
• Power Bank / battery charger
• Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate

Shop my merino wool trekking socks:

Merinol Wool Hiking Socks

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Thank you to TreXperience for hosting me during the trip.
As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

The post Machu Picchu Trek – 4 Day Itinerary with TreXperience on the Inca Trail appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

20 Photos To Put Peru’s Inca Trail
On Your Bucket List

Peru’s Inca Trail is one of the most epic treks you can do. You’ll be crossing over mountains, through ancient Inca sites, past waterfalls until eventually arriving at the great world wonder, Machu Picchu.

While this trek is certainly not easy (helloooo 12 hour hiking days and nearly 14,000 feet elevation!) it is an incredible chance to test your limits, challenge yourself and get lost in nature… on the very trail the Incas used to walk!

We did the trek with TreXperience and I cannot recommend them highly enough.

So without further ado, 20 photos to add this trek to your bucket list!

Shop my gear from the trek:

Packable Hiking Backpack

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Merinol Wool Hiking Socks

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Hydration Bladder

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LED Beanie Hat with Light

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And be sure to check out the full 4 day itinerary here:

The post 20 Photos To Put Peru’s Inca Trail On Your Bucket List appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.