Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca fortress nestled high in the Andes, is like the Beyoncé of tourist attractions – it’s been around for ages, but it still draws in a massive crowd of adoring fans. With over 1.4 million visitors each year, it’s practically the poster child for Peru and South America as a whole.
People flock to Machu Picchu for the breathtaking views, the fact that it’s managed to survive being lost in the jungle for 500 years (talk about a serious case of “hide and seek”!), and the mysterious aura that surrounds the place. It’s like stepping into a real-life Indiana Jones movie, minus the booby traps and rolling boulders (we hope).
So, is it the right moment for you to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Machu Picchu? Is it still up to you to choose between taking the delightful Cusco to Machu Picchu train ride, walking the Inca way, or taking the less prominent Lares Inca trail? The greatest advice for climbing Machu Picchu is provided here.
Climbing the Machu Picchu Mountains
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the following fundamental information regarding the mountain:
Height from Machu Picchu
There is a 2,139-foot (652-meter) climb. If you are afraid of altitudes, you must definitely avoid this journey.
Weather
The mountain’s temperature is predicted to start at roughly 45 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning and reach a high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit by late afternoon. Wear clothing that you can take off as the day goes on.
Altitude
At 10,111 feet (3,082 meters) above sea level, the highest point is located. Traveling at this high elevation will be more challenging if you’re not quite acclimated to it.
Tips to climb Machu Picchu
Get training
Be sure to arrive for this excursion in top physical shape. Create a workout schedule tailored to this particular trail. You should be aware of the daily altitude rises on the trail as well as the kind of terrain you will be hiking on. Aim for four or five times a week of training in order to be ready for the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu.
Avoid all drop-off points
The trail should always remain on the hillside. It is important to constantly be cautious of where you set your feet and avoid the trail’s border due to its considerable fall and rocky surface. The trail has relatively few guard rails. It follows that you must continue on the trail’s mountainside. At every moment, keep a safe distance from drops. You must avoid drop-offs and carefully put each foot because several really difficult stair portions descend.
Acclimatize in Cusco
An essential component of the acclimatization procedure is a workout. It’s crucial to get to Cusco early and spend time exploring the city and the terrain around it on foot. While exercise is necessary, you want to do it without elevating your pulse. This shouldn’t be an issue if you have arrived equipped and trained.
Pay attention to your surroundings
Pay careful consideration to everything around you. You must keep on the slope of the trail to avoid getting thrown off because many workers are racing by you. You must alert your fellow hikers to the approaching porters so that they can also securely move to the highest point of the trail. This is particularly crucial when descending the rocky steps found on the Inca Trail.
You really must learn to take charge of your own well-being on the trail since the gradients are steeper than you may imagine. Prioritize your personal safety above all else when out on the hiking path.
The hike to the top of the mountain takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours on average. There are various mountainous and difficult stretches on the trail, as well as rocky terrain and steps. Nonetheless, the magnificent & expansive panorama of Machu Picchu and the nearby mountains make the climb worthwhile.