Inca Trail Backpacker: Machu Picchu, Peru is rated Difficult due to the challenging physical demands caused by the variability of the terrain and high altitude. You will love this trip if you enjoy physical challenges, have a well-developed level of agility, muscular strength, and cardiovascular endurance. Furthermore, international travel requires adaptability and an adventurous attitude. We insist that you honestly evaluate your mental and physical capabilities before signing up for this trip.

To help you prepare for this trip, we’ve customized workouts that you can purchase directly from our website. Click here to visit the Online Workouts page and select the Hiking/Backpacking workout that’s right for you.

♦Difficult. For very fit exercisers who enjoy mountain exploration and sleeping outdoors

Activity: 8-10 hours most days

Distances: Hike up to 7 miles/day

Surfaces: Well-maintained, pack dirt or stone trail with uneven surfaces. Terrain may require strenuous climbs and descents with steep drop-offs.

Elevation Change: Up to 5,000 ft

Altitude: 9,000 -14,300 ft

Warning: The elevation of the entire trip is at high altitude. Common side affects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and elevated heart rate. We’ll do everything we can to educate and prepare you for the hiking the Andes. Be prepared to do your part to prevent/treat altitude sickness by eliminating alcohol, drinking plenty of water, and being willing to take prophylactic treatment including cocoa tea and candy and medication. We require all of our clients to sign medical waivers, so please consult your doctor before registering for this trip.

Remember, there’s no ‘wimp’ in adventure. By choice you are signing up to join other fun, fitness-loving travelers for an epic adventure in a developing country, not a 5-star resort vacation. Expect international snafu’s and minor changes to the itinerary due to railway strikes, weather changes, or the whim of local guides. We like team players on our trips and you are expected to be adaptable, to interact with guides, operators, and other guests with respect.