Hiking in the Andes is a life-changing experience, but it requires proper preparation. Whether you embark on the Salkantay Trek or a shorter Sacred Valley tour, being prepared is key to enjoying every step. At Machu Picchu Exploration, we want your adventure to be safe and memorable. Here we share our best hiking tips.
- Essential Equipment: Don’t Underestimate Preparation
Good equipment can make the difference between an unforgettable trip and one filled with discomfort.- Footwear: Wear well-worn hiking boots (never new) that provide good ankle support.
- Layers of Clothing: The Andean climate changes quickly. Dress in layers: a breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer (fleece), and a waterproof or windproof jacket.
- Backpack: Keep it light and comfortable. Don’t bring more than necessary.
- Accessories: A hat or cap, gloves, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.
- What to Pack: The Smart Backpacker’s Checklist
For a full-day tour from Cusco or a multi-day hike, these are your essential basics:- Documents: Passport, visa (if applicable), entrance tickets, and cash (Peruvian soles) for small expenses.
- Water: Plenty of water or a filter to purify it from the streams.
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and chocolate will give you the extra energy you need.
- Personal First Aid Kit: Pain relievers, bandages, altitude sickness pills, and personal medications.
- Headlamp: Essential if you start the hike before dawn or finish it at dusk.
- How to Train for the Treks
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to have a good physical base, especially for the Salkantay Trek or long-distance routes.- Cardiovascular Exercise: Run, swim, or bike 2-3 times a week.
- Hiking: Start with short hikes on steep terrain. Gradually increase the distance and the weight of your pack.
- Acclimatization in Cusco: Don’t underestimate the altitude. Spend 2-3 days in Cusco before starting your trek.
- Personal Challenges: Stories from travelers who completed these routes
Often, the greatest adventure isn’t in the mountains, but within ourselves. Many of our clients have shared stories of how the challenge of Andean treks has transformed them.- Story from Ana, 35, from Spain: “I never thought I could reach the summit of Salkantay Pass. The climb was tough, but upon arrival, the view brought tears to my eyes. It was an indescribable sense of accomplishment. I not only conquered the mountain, but I conquered myself.”
- Story from David and Sarah, 50, from Canada: “We did the Lares Trek to celebrate our 25th anniversary. The warmth of the local communities and the peaceful landscape brought us closer together. It was more than a hike, it was a spiritual journey.”
These stories reflect that every step on the Andean trails represents personal growth. Trekking is challenging, but the reward is much more than just a breathtaking view.
Preparing for a hike in the Andes is the first part of the adventure. At Machu Picchu Exploration, we not only provide the tour, but also the knowledge and expert guides to make your experience safe, comfortable, and, above all, magical. From a private Machu Picchu tour guide to a group hike, we’re ready to accompany you.
