5 Myths In regards to the Inca Trail Uncovered6096512
Trekking the Inca Trail is within the bucket list for a lot of adventure travellers and quite rightly so, because it is a breath-taking trek following ancient Incan footpaths to the magical Machu Picchu ruins. There are lots of myths and untruths discussing the trek, this short article seeks to dispel these and gives some realistic advice for all planning their Inca Trail Holiday.
1) The Inca Trail is over-crowded and you'll't move for other travellers
I have read this statement so frequently, in various guide books and blogs, so by the point I came to do the trek myself, I likely to be fighting for space about the paths. I trekked in June, that is right in center of the peak season high were points during the 2nd and 3rd days, when I barely saw another trekker. Spaces around the trail have become on a 500 people on a daily basis, which include about 300 porters, who ready off early in the morning, so actually it is quite possible to get peace and quiet whilst trekking.
The campsites for the trail are, admittedly, busier, especially on the final night when everyone camps as close to Machu Picchu as you possibly can. But by this time your focus is going to be on reaching direct sunlight Gate the following morning (and nursing your sore legs) to ensure the lines of tents shouldn't bother you much.
2) The altitude makes trekking only practical for the super fit
It is true that the hardest part of trekking the Inca Trail would be the altitude. Some people fly in to the city of Cusco to begin the trek and at an altitude of 3,500m, it can take a few days to acclimatise. Most people experience altitude sickness at some level, with common symptoms including headaches, nausea, breathlessness, dizziness and lack of appetite. These usually settle down after 36 hours. Our advice is usually to drink plenty of fluids, rest and don't exert yourself for your first few days.
Once out trekking, the main element to cooking it to Machu Picchu in one piece is always to grab the hiking at the own pace, rest lots and drink plenty of water. The 2nd day, if you climb to 4,300m, will be the toughest and the majority people pass, they simply must walk slowly and rest regularly.
3) It's cheaper to try and do the Inca Trail independently
It used to be possible to trek the Inca Trail independently and also this is how some people visited Machu Picchu in years gone by. Since 2002, the trail have been regulated from the Peruvian authorities who issue permits through licensed agents. The terms and conditions in the permits show that you will need to trek using a guide and porters. You can find strict checks along the route to ensure all trekkers have permits.
4) It's cheaper to buy your permits online
Whilst you'll be able to purchase your Inca Jungle trek or holiday online, permits could only be obtained by authorised agents located in Peru. In order to make this happen, they have to take your passport details plus a deposit. The local bureau issues 500 permits every day and you'll check accessibility to these around the official government website.
5) Porters are poorly treated
Whilst historically, porters were badly treated and under-paid, there may be a lot more awareness amongst traveller about responsible travel, ensuring that porters' well-being has moved into many trekkers' consciousness. Having said that, price war means all aspects and services information about the trails stay squeezed, including wages. It is possible to assist to support porter welfare by causing sure you should only book your trek via a reputable operator who provides porters with correct footwear and proper food. It's also possible to supplement wages by tipping them at the end of the trek.
