Embarking on the iconic Inca Trail hike is a dream for many, but preparation is key to ensuring a smooth journey. Crafting the perfect packing list can make all the difference between a comfortable trek and a challenging ordeal. When doing the 4-day trail with my partner, there were many things we wish we had known before starting the hike. In this article, we’ll share exactly that, as well as a complete inca trail packing list for men & women, what we wish we knew before going, tips to optimize your packing, and more.

Quick Inca Trail Packing List for The Hike To Machu Picchu

A Day-By-Day Breakdown of the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail (sometimes called the trail to Machu Picchu) is soaked in historical significance, cultural depth, and stunning vistas. It spans roughly 26 miles (42 kilometers) and is typically covered over a span of four days, with each day having its unique set of marvels and challenges.

Here’s a rundown of the trail to offer a better perspective of the adventure ahead:

Day 1

The trail starts rather easily, regarded by many as a ‘warm-up’ to the forthcoming trek. The journey of about 7.8 miles (12.5 kilometers) starts at Kilometer 82. Initially, trekkers walk on fairly level grounds, tracing the edges of the Urubamba River. As the journey unfolds, an ascent into agricultural lands offers the first view of an Inca relic, the Llactapata ruins. The day draws to a close at Wayllabamba, allowing trekkers to rest amidst the Andean background.

During the first day, I realized I did a good job packing a small bag. Even on level grounds, we still walked a lot, and any extra weight would have been annoying to carry around. Make sure your bag is comfortable around the shoulders, as mine were a little sore by the end of the day. Snacks were really necessary as well, as it takes around 5-7 hours from lunch to dinner time. When the sun set, it got really cold, and I used all of the layers I had brought for the night. We used the sleeping bag pouches as pillows, stuffing our clothes inside.

Day 2

Day two is, without doubt, the most demanding segment along the trail. Although it’s about 5.9 miles (9.5 kilometers), the route involves a daunting climb to the peak of the trail, known as Dead Woman’s Pass or Warmiwañusca in Quechua, which towers at 13,828 feet (4,215 meters). For those who have tourbled knees, a hiking pole can really come in handy here, and at times I wish I had asked for one before starting the trail. However, even without it, I managed to be one of the first people to get to the top.

The ascent transitions from a cloud forest to the puna, a high-altitude terrain distinguished by grasslands and unique flora. Upon reaching the peak, hikers are rewarded with unparalleled achievement and sweeping views of the valleys below.

Layering also proved itself to be effective this day, as temperatures would change a lot.

Day 3

On this day, even though the distance is roughly 10 miles (16 kilometers), the path is marked by historical gems and mostly downhill treks. Descending from the second pass introduces trekkers to the Runkurakay ruins, a historic Inca resting place. Further down, you’ll witness the Inca landmarks of Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, both boasting mesmerizing outlooks. Because of the fast-paced descents, my boyfriend got really bad blisters on his feet, and we had to borrow band-aids from some other trekkers.

The journey for the day ends at the Wiñay Wayna camp, positioned near the ruins bearing the same name.

Day 4

The concluding day, though the shortest at around 3.2 miles (5 kilometers), is the pinnacle of the entire journey. Eager hikers often set off at dawn to be at Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, as the sun rises. We had to wait for about an hour until the gates opened, and it was pretty cold outside. Gloves, a beanie and a scarf really kept me warm here, and I’m glad I packed them.

This location offers the inaugural sight of Machu Picchu, shining in the golden morning light. A mild descent leads to the ruins of Machu Picchu. After indulging in the site’s history and views, most opt to head to Aguas Calientes, marking the end of their Inca Trail experience.

Packing for Different Seasons on the Inca Trail

Your packing list for the Inca Trail might differ depending on when you choose to trek. Here’s a breakdown by season:

Dry Season (May to September):

For dry season, you need to pack lightweight hiking pants, moisture-wicking shirts, and a fleece jacket for colder evenings. You pretty much need to follow the packing list above, which is what I took when I went to the trail at this time of the year. Waterproof hiking boots are always recommended, but paths will generally be drier. Even with the lower temperatures, the sun is still pretty strong, so bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the strong mountain sun.

Since temperatures tend to change abruptly, it is smart to dress in layers, taking them off one by one as the sun rises.

Shoulder Season (April and October):

These months usually have some rainy days, so preparing for that is important. Pack an extra layer, as temperatures can be unpredictable. A waterproof rain jacket and windproof outer layer is crucial. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip for potential wet paths can help you avoid accidents, and lightweight gloves and a beanie could be beneficial during colder mornings and evenings.

General Essentials for All Seasons:

• A sturdy backpack with good support.
• Waterbottle
• First aid kit, including blister treatments.
• High-calorie snacks and energy bars.
• Personal identification and necessary permits.
• Pretty much everything in the packing list above.

Clothing Etiquette on the Inca Trail

You will not be told off if you do otherwise, but it is good to follow local customs regarding clothing. It will also allow you to make more connections during your expedition on the Inca trail.

The Inca Trail isn’t just a scenic trek; it’s a journey through the Andean culture and history. While the primary concern for most trekkers is to wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, it’s also worth considering a few clothing etiquette points to show respect and awareness:

Modesty

Although the Inca Trail is primarily a tourist route, you may encounter local communities or sacred sites. It’s advisable to dress modestly, particularly when passing through or visiting these areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. My daily clothing comprised loose trekking pants and a graphic shirt, covered with warm jackets and a scarf, for example.

Respect Sacred Sites

On reaching Machu Picchu or other sacred ruins, being mindful of your attire is essential. While there’s no strict dress code, wearing respectful clothing — similar to what you’d wear when visiting any sacred site around the world — is a good rule of thumb.

Environmentally-Conscious Choices

Environmentally-conscious clothes are garments produced using sustainable materials and methods that minimize negative environmental impacts. While this isn’t strictly “etiquette,” opting for environmentally-friendly clothing can make a difference to the world. Consider bringing items made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, wool, and tencel/lyocell, and avoid items that can easily shed microplastics.

Most of my clothes were made out of cotton, which was perfect because they were light and breathable, not holding up sweat or any unpleasant odors during the trail.

Local Crafts

Wearing or using items crafted by local artisans, such as hats, scarves, or bags, can be a wonderful way to support the local economy. Just ensure you’re purchasing genuine handcrafted goods rather than mass-produced items.

Brands and Logos

Flashy logos or overly branded gear isn’t necessarily offensive but can create a barrier between trekkers and locals. Opting for more neutral, unbranded attire can foster a sense of approachability.

Money on the Inca Trail: Essential Tips for Trekkers

Pack Beforehand or Exchange There?

Peru, home to the Inca Trail, uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN) as its official currency. While many travelers opt to carry a certain amount of local currency before arriving, several options are available for currency exchange and withdrawal in the country.

Can you withdraw cash?

ATMs are widely available in major cities like Cusco and Aguas Calientes. They usually dispense both PEN and USD. Given the fees, you can use Western Union services in Peru, but it’s more commonly used for emergencies.

What are the fees?

ATM fees can vary, but expect a local bank charge of 5-20 PEN per withdrawal.

Foreign exchange fees

Most foreign cards charge a foreign transaction fee, usually 1-3% of the purchase amount. It’s best to check with your bank beforehand.

Can I use foreign cards?

Major cities and tourist areas generally accept foreign credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard. However, smaller establishments or remote areas may not have this facility. Always have some cash on hand. When in the Inca Trail, you will not be able to use credit or debit cards, as the establishments are very humble. You need to bring cash with you before you start the walk!

Do they take USD as payment?

Not in the Inca Trail. In near towns like Aguas Calientes, you may find some establishments that accept USD, but don’t expect the same once you’re into the Andean jungle.

Best place to exchange currency

Avoid exchanging money at the airport, as rates are typically unfavorable. Instead, look for “Casa de Cambio” (exchange houses) in cities like Cusco and Aguas Calientes. They offer competitive rates. Just ensure they’re reputable.

ATM or Exchange?

While ATMs are convenient, frequent withdrawals can rack up fees. Using exchange houses can be more economical for larger amounts. Still, the best approach is a mix of both, depending on the situation.

Scams

Beware of counterfeit bills. When receiving change, inspect the notes for authenticity. Also, be cautious of unofficial street currency exchangers offering “too-good-to-be-true” rates.

How Much Money Do I Need For The Inca Trail? | How Much We Spent

My partner and I hiked the Inca trail – below is a full breakdown of what we spent. We took 460 PEN ($120). This was sufficient for tipping the porters and our guide. We didn’t buy any snacks or souvenirs on the trail (since we had brought a lot of protein bars and chocolate packed already). However, we both agreed we wished we had taken a little more, for souvenirs once we arrived at Machu Picchu. The amount we took was enough to endure the trail comfortably, so if you’re on a budget, to hike the Inca trail, $60 for 1 person is absolutely fine.

Below we’ve also left the average Peruvian Sol we personally used while hiking the Inca trail:

• 40 PEN ($10.54) total on breakfast during the first day before arriving on the trail.
• 20 PEN ($5.27) on Gatorade during the second day, which we bought from local ladies with stands filled with snacks and drinks.
• 180 PEN ($47.42) for tipping our guide and the porters at the end
• 40 PEN ($10.54) on snacks and coffee once we got to Machu Picchu.

What’s Included in the Inca Trail Price?

How to Backpack to the Inka Trail? That is The Question

This is personally what I did, and it helped with bringing more outfits and fancier clothes to my larger Peru trip. However, if you’re only going for the Inca trail, I would suggest bringing only a backpack, and maybe leaving some unnecessary items inside a smaller back at your Cusco hotel/hostel before leaving for the trail.

What Style Bag Should I Take?

My bag had breathable straps and really good back and chest support. However, it lacked waist belt support, which would have been helpful. No matter the bag you take, your shoulders will be hurting by the last days of the trail, but you can minimize that with straps and other supporting mechanisms. Also, make sure to bring a bag with different pockets and sections, just to make the packing and unpacking easier when reaching the campsite.

Packing Tips To Optimise for Space & Weight | How To Fit More in Your Bag

Best Practices for Packing

Packing is easy; packing well is an art. When walking all day long and having to take almost everything off your back to reach for one essential item, some tips can come in handy:

Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling your clothes can save space and often results in fewer creases compared to folding. Lay clothes flat, smooth out wrinkles, and then roll tightly. One pro tip is to use the clothes inside your backpack as a pillow. At night, we filled the sleeping bag case with our clothes and slept on top of it, which highly improved our comfort.

You don’t need vacuum or compression bags; it will just be extra work when it’s time to pack and unpack when it’s cold and dark outside.

Layering

Pack lighter items, like clothes, at the bottom and layer heavier ones, like your toiletry bag, on top. This way, the heavy items ‘squeeze’ the lighter ones, allowing for more space in your bag.

Utilize Dead Space

Stuff socks or other small items into your shoes or other nooks and crannies.

Mind the Importance of Things

Items that you use more regularly should go in compartments that are more accessible. Keep your snacks, sunscreen, hat, and anything you might need to use during the day at the top of the bag or at separate pockets. This way, you won’t need to unpack the whole thing to reach for a single item.

I would also suggest taking a shoulder bag specifically for these items, so you don’t have to take your bag off your shoulders and unpack every time you need something. The little things like this make all the difference when you’re hiking for 4 days!

What We Wish We Didn’t Pack:

While the Inca Trail can be chilly, many travelers overcompensate. Light, moisture-wicking layers are more efficient than bulky sweaters, as these will have to go inside your backpack when the sun comes out during the day, making it heavier and less practical. Also, you will not change as much as you think you will, so don’t get excited with pants and shirts.

Personally, I wish I hadn’t taken some of the clothes I brought, because I didn’t end up using them and it was just extra weight on my back. Also, I would recommend minimizing the amount of entertainment you bring – one single small book and a deck of cards is enough. I also packed some makeup, thinking I would use it, but it was the last thing I wanted to put on my face.

What We Wish Someone Told Us To Take Before Packing for the Inca Trail:

We definitely wish we had brought more money than we did, since at the end, everybody gets together to tip the men who carry the tents and food for us; although we tipped the same as everyone else (the recommended minimum amount of 80 PEN per porter and 100 PEN for the guide), we wish we would have given them more). Also, most small vendors on or near the trail do not take cards. Having a stash of Peruvian Sol would have been handy. Taking some meds for sore muscles and blisters is important, as we cover an average of 10km per day. My boyfriend had bad blisters on the last day, and we had to borrow band-aids and painkillers from some of our fellow trekkers.

Emergency Details To Sort Before Going

Whether embarking on an adventure like the Inca Trail or just a standard trip, preparing for emergencies is essential. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’ve got everything sorted:

Emergency Contacts

Compile a list of essential contacts, including family, close friends, your country’s embassy in the destination country, local emergency services, and your travel insurance’s helpline. Ensure these numbers are saved in your phone and in a physical form in case your battery dies.

Medical Information

If you have any medical conditions, wear a medical ID bracelet. Keep a card listing allergies, medications, and other pertinent health info in your wallet. Carry a basic first-aid kit and any specific medications you may need.

Travel Insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering activities you’ll participate in. Understand your policy: know what is covered and what is not. Save a digital and physical copy of your insurance policy.

Backup Documents

Make copies (both digital and physical) of crucial documents: passport, visas, driver’s license, itinerary, hotel reservations, and travel insurance. Store digital copies in a secure cloud storage or on a USB, and physical copies separate from the originals.

Emergency Funds

Always have some local currency in cash for unforeseen emergencies. Consider carrying a separate emergency credit card or prepaid card.

Notify Someone of Your Itinerary:

Always let someone know where you’re going, your routes, and expected check-in times. This could be a family member, a close friend, or even an online travel group.

In essence, while no one anticipates emergencies, being prepared can make a difference in how you handle them. Taking the time to sort these details can grant peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your journey more fully.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Camila Mendonca

Camila is a true adventurer, with a love for hiking, exploration, and also the finer, more luxurious things in life. A tacos al pastor enthusiast, and lover of well-thought-out lodgings, hotels, and the Mediterranean Ocean, she has a passion for exploring the uncovered nooks and crannies of this beautiful blue earth – armed with her orange carry-on backpack. You’ll find Camila writing in detail about all things South America here on WHTC. Anything you need to know from hiking the Inca trail to digital nomad-ing around Latin America to uncovering the great, unknown spots in Brazil (and more) – Camila is here to help carve the path and make traveling easier for all.