Insider Tips to Conquering Peru’s Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Hike

I’m not gonna lie—I was scared after agreeing to do Peru’s popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike. More like terrified. I’ve definitely been known to spend a couple hours hiking some trails for the afternoon, though never for 4-days straight or up to elevations that can cause altitude sickness. But, the 26-mile trek is probably the most iconic (or shall I say, bucket list worthy) thing to do in Peru, if not all of South America. Which means, I didn’t want to miss it.

Machu Picchu is undoubtedly a breathtaking destination (it didn’t get the title as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World for nothing!), but adding the beauty of the Classic Inca Trail is like the suspenseful buildup to the grand finale attraction. Its Andean mountain passes are iconic, its steep terrain is brutally challenging, and it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. And if this out-of-shape, middle-aged chick can do it, so can you.

From training tips to preparing for altitude…