An ancient pathway winds through the rugged Andes Mountains. Hanging valleys overflow with lush cloud forests. The echoes of an ancient civilization whisper through stone pathways. The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most legendary treks, leading adventurers to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu.

When we talk about trekking the Inca Trail, we refer to a small portion of the vast Qhapac Ñan road network built by the Incas in the 1400s. This system extends over 40,000 kilometres across six countries, but the most famous part is the four-day Inca trek to Machu Picchu.

How hard is the Inca Trail? Can the average trekker complete it?

The answer is yes, but preparation is key.

Just the Facts

The Inca Trail covers 45km and reaches an altitude of 4,200m (13,780ft). It includes ancient stone staircases, steep ascents, and high-altitude passes. It is a challenging trek, but achievable with the right training and mindset.

Our trek starts at Km. 88, further downstream from where most groups cross the Urubamba River at Km. 82. This route avoids the crowds and offers a more isolated experience, allowing trekkers to fully appreciate the landscape.

The first day is relatively easy, with a gentle hike along the Urubamba River, passing small villages and the ruins of Llactapata. The first night is spent at Chamana, where a hot shower awaits.

The second day is the toughest, with a steep ascent through cloud forests towards Llulluchapampa at 3,850m (12,631ft). This peaceful high-altitude campsite sits just below Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek.

Day three is the most scenic, with a stunning trail past Inca ruins like Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca. The hike consists of stone staircases, cloud forests, and ridgelines, leading to the “village above the clouds,” Phuyupatamarca.

The final day is an early morning descent to Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites. From here, a short one-hour trek leads to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu awaits.

Preparation: Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is essential for the Inca Trail. Cardiovascular endurance is key, so activities like running, cycling, and hill walking should be part of your training.

A minimum of five hours of training per week for at least three months before the trek is recommended. Hill training is especially beneficial.

Walking on sloping terrain prepares the legs for the steep ascents and descents of the trail. Strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance are all important for a successful trek.

Train for the tough bits

Training in adverse conditions can help you prepare mentally. Rolling out of a sleeping bag when it’s -20°C in the dark is not fun, so if you can get into a routine of getting up before the sun in a cold setting, try it. It can’t hurt.

Putting yourself in a ‘Success Mindset’ can help. Pretend you’re on the trail while you train. Wear any boots you might buy for the trip while you train. (That’ll help break them in, too, which is very important.) Wear a daypack and put as much weight as you can in it while training. Picture yourself there. Wear the clothes you might wear on the trail and take off layers as you warm up.

Rest and recovery are also important. Overtraining is not uncommon, and if your physical exercise is too demanding, you risk injury, which certainly doesn’t help your ability to climb a mountain.

Acclimatisation in Peru

There are several tricks that can help with acclimatisation. One suggestion is to add one or two acclimatization days (or more) in Cusco to your trek. These can be arranged before the start of your trip and hanging out in Cusco is quite fun.

The best acclimatisation strategy is to climb the trail slowly. When you get on the trail, our porters will constantly urge you to slow down. Take their advice. The slower you go, the better your chances of reaching the top of Warmihuañusca.

Best season for the Inca Trail

The best time to trek the Inca Trail is the southern hemisphere’s winter (also the dry season), generally between May and September. Between November and March is the rainy season. Note: the Inca Trail is generally closed in February for maintenance work.

WANT TO TREK THE INCA TRAIL? Check out these Inca Trail and Machu Picchu hiking tours.

Trekking to the Lost City of the Incas is a bucket list ticker for many adventurers, but which route is the best?

The famous Inca Trail, rated one of South America's finest treks, allows travellers the chance to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas, visiting the impressive ancient Inca sites along the way. The Salkantay trek, an alternate route for Inca trail trekkers, is no less remarkable with an array of breathtaking scenery – from snow-capped mountains to cloud forests – that will make you feel closer to nature.

Whichever route you decide on, both promise to deliver an unforgettable trek up high mountain passes and through lush jungles, with that llama selfie you were probably hoping of taking too. Use our comparison table below to help choose the right Machu Picchu trek for you.

Other treks to consider

Salkantay Base Camp trek to Machu Picchu: Camp beneath the spectacular Mount Salkantay and on the final day, join the classic Inca Trail for the unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu from the ‘Sun Gate’. This is a variation of the Salkantay trek which is longer and slightly more challenging.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has been coined in many guidebooks as the ‘best short trek in the world’ and with a bit of training, almost anyone can walk the Inca Trail, but only with a permit.

Specialising in high-quality treks along the Inca Trail and to Machu Picchu for more than three decades, here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail, with bonus tips from our adventure experts.

Jump to a section:
How difficult is it to walk the Inca Trail? What is the terrain like?
How can I prepare for the trek?
How many hours a day do you walk?
How can I avoid altitude sickness?
Can I walk the Inca Trail myself? How can I get a permit?
Why do I need a permit?
What if I can't get a permit?
Can I visit the Sun Gate without having to hike the Inca Trail?
I want to visit Machu Picchu but want to try a different trek to the classic Inca Trail. What are some alternatives?
When is the best time to walk the Inca Trail?
What climates can I expect?
What gear should I bring with me?
How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What can I do at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What can’t be brought into the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What will I eat along the trail?
What is the accommodation like?
How does World Expeditions do the Inca Trail differently?
Which trail should I choose?

How difficult is it to walk the Inca Trail? What is the terrain like?

It’s not our most challenging trek, but you will be walking over hilly and rugged terrain with lots of stairs. 

Expect some long, steep ascents too. Most of the walking is on fairly well-defined tracks, including some remarkable sections of ancient Inca stone "highways". There are some river crossings but no sections where scrambling is involved. It is recommended that you stay on the stone path at all times and keep well away from the edge.

With the help of porters carrying your personal gear, you’ll only need to worry about carrying a day pack of around 5-8kg including your water, camera and clothing layers.

RELATED ARTICLE: How hard is it to hike the Inca Trail?

How can I prepare for the Inca Trail trek?

The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek. We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure. Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.

How many hours a day do you walk on the Inca Trail?

The trekking day very much depends on the condition of the trails, the weather and the fitness of the group but expect to walk for 6-7 hours a day.

The morning's walk usually lasts from about 8 am to 12.30 pm and allows for numerous rest and photo stops. After a post-lunch siesta, we set off for the afternoon's hike – usually 2-3 hours to the camp.

How can I avoid altitude sickness on the Inca Trail?

Altitude is also an important factor to consider, with the highest point of the trail at 4200 metres. The effects of altitude sickness can vary for different individuals, but some key things to keep in mind is to take it easy and ascend slowly.

Staff tip: Have plenty of fluids – hydration is so important when acclimatising.

Our itinerary is very well-paced to ensure you acclimatise safely – so ideal for first-timers, where you’ll walk through impressive Inca sites of the Sacred Valley before undertaking the Inca Trail trek.

Can I walk the Inca Trail myself? How can I get a permit?

No, you need a permit to walk the Inca Trail. Only approved tour operators, like World Expeditions, can obtain a permit.

Joining a small group to travel with a licensed operator means you can experience the comfort, seamless organisation and security of an active holiday. World Expeditions have all necessities taken care of, including hearty meals prepared by trained cooks, quality two-person tents erected in scenic wilderness, a lighter pack thanks to our team of porters, as well as the use of a sleeping bag, Thermarest and fibre-filled jacket.

Not to mention, having an expert bilingual guide adds to the experience as they share the history of the Incan empire and sites you visit, with their own tales of fascinating cultural and travel experiences.

Why do I need an Inca Trail permit?

Machu Picchu stands much the same as it did hundreds of years ago due to its superior architecture and carefully managed conservation programs. To protect Machu Picchu from the impact of its popularity, Peruvian authorities have implemented entry restrictions where only 500 permits are issued each day to walk the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu.

By the time permits are issued to porters, guides and other support staff, this leaves a limited amount of permits available for trekkers. Permits always sell out in high season, so it is highly recommended to book months in advance to secure a permit.

What if I can't get an Inca Trail permit?

If you miss out on a permit, World Expeditions has developed several brilliant Inca Trail alternatives to ensure you can experience the magic of trekking through the Andes and the Sacred Valley of the Incas to behold the wondrous Machu Picchu as the finale.

Travellers can still book on our Inca Trail itineraries but if Inca Permits are sold out already, we offer the Salcantay trek instead at no additional cost on many of our Inca Trail trips.

Can I visit the Sun Gate without having to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, everyone who has an entrance ticket for Machu Picchu can walk up to the Inti Punku 'Sun Gate', which is approximately a 45-minute walk.

Staff tip: It’s important to note that to make it to the Sun Gate for the sunrise you must first have to catch a bus, queue to get into Machu Picchu and then walk about 45 minutes.

I want to visit Machu Picchu but want to try a different trek to the classic Inca Trail. What are some alternatives?

The classic Inca Trail is a quintessential Peruvian trek, however, hiking this iconic route is not the only way to get to Machu Picchu.

There are other treks you can hike that are no less spectacular, including the alternate Salcantay trek, with a scenic train journey to Machu Picchu town after the trek; or choose the Salcantay Base Camp trek which joins the classic Inca Trail on the final day.

A particular staff favourite is the Inca Rivers Trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu that take you to rare and incredible views of Machu Picchu. This is a more remote trek, which is moderate to challenging, but offers a more varied trail away from the crowds to other spectacular Inca Ruin sites, such as Choquequirao, through the sublime Vilcabamba mountain range and between two sacred Inca Rivers.

When is the best time to walk the Inca Trail?

The main trekking season in Peru lasts from late April to mid-October. This is the dry but 'cold' period, with the best mountain views and all passes open.

What climates can I expect on the Inca Trail?

Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra/Andean mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance. 

While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge. You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 10-25°C (50-77 °F), falling as low as -10 °C (14°F) at night.

What gear should I bring with me on the Inca Trail?

Essential trekking gear includes merino socks (add in some extras), an anti-blister kit, warm clothes, waterproofs, worn-in boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera and trekking poles.

We provide a comprehensive gear list as part of our traveller’s pre-departure kit and gear such as sleeping mats, sleeping bags and a fibre-filled jacket are available for use for trekkers.

How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.

To ensure you get the most of your Machu Picchu experience regardless of these restrictions, most of our Inca Trail trips include an extra visit to Machu Picchu, with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, to fully appreciate this new world wonder.

Staff tip: The early morning is one of the best times to savour the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu. The mystical morning light over the enigmatic sites is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wake-up call!

What can I do at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

On many of our Inca Trail trips, travellers are treated to a unique second visit to Machu Picchu, which includes a tour by a local guide in this colossal sanctuary. 

Your guide will take you through the different sectors, bringing alive the history and stories of these ancient and iconic ruins. You’ll feel like you’re taking a step back in time as you soak up the astonishing views, expert knowledge, and impressive ruins.

For the more adventurous, you can climb one of the two mountains in the Machu Picchu sanctuary by purchasing a Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permit and forego the guided tour of Machu Picchu. 

Both climbs are a minimum of three hours return and are very steep, with many small and narrow steps, and can be slippery and are very exposed with vertiginous drops.

What can’t be brought into the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

The following items are prohibited in Machu Picchu: drones, selfie sticks, tripods for cameras, walking sticks without rubber tips, backpacks that exceed 40cm x 35cm x 20cm, aerosol spray, sharp objects, banners or posters.

As of December 2018, single-use plastic bottles and any other single-use plastics (bags, cups, straws, etc) are prohibited in the sanctuary, on the Inca Trail and all other protected natural areas in Peru. This regulation was established by the Ministry of Environment, following the Sustainable Tourism Regulation which aims to conserve these protected natural areas. Please ensure to bring your reusable water bottle on all our Peru trips.

Water refill stations have been installed in areas near Machu Picchu and other national parks. Your guide will brief you on where you can refill your water bottles with drinking water.

What will I eat along the Inca Trail?

We provide a full service while on the trek, including three hearty meals a day. Typically, you can expect breakfast to consist of muesli or cereal, eggs, local bread and pancakes and hot drinks.

Lunch will generally be vegetables, salads, bread, cheese pasta style dishes, tinned fish and meats and are normally eaten picnic style. Dinner is always three courses and includes soup, seasonal vegetables, meat, rice or pasta and bread with some local specialities also in the mix. All evening meals are followed by desserts and hot beverages, of course!

Our cooks are trained to provide excellent food for vegetarians and anyone who has a limited diet including those who are lactose or gluten intolerant.

What is the accommodation like on the Inca Trail trek?

In cities or large towns, you will be accommodated in three to four-star properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and commodious. In smaller towns and villages hotel options are often limited with more basic accommodation used, however you can be assured of clean, comfortable and well-located lodgings.

During the trekking section, enjoy our fully supported camping experience in quality two-person tents with plenty of personal space and storage for your luggage. Our team are on hand to ensure your comfort and safety with a dining tent, a separate cooking tent and where appropriate, a toilet tent is erected.

How does World Expeditions do the Inca Trail differently?

 • The Classic Inca Trail trek ensures you are well acclimatised to the altitude with day walks through impressive Inca sites of the Sacred Valley before the Inca Trail trek. With at least 2 or more days of acclimatisation built into all our itineraries before the start of the Inca Trail, the high passes and altitude experience on the trek will be easier to conquer.

 • Enjoy fully supported camping with gear included! Each trekker is equipped with a kit bag which includes a sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping mat and fibre-filled jacket.

 • To appreciate the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu, an extra visit to the famous sanctuary is also included.

 
 • We tread lightly and thoughtfully in the places we visit for minimal environmental impact. We have a zero-litter policy, utilise an eco toilet system at our campsites, and have innovative schemes to reduce waste on the trek, including our 10 Pieces waste collection program.

Which Inca Trail trip should I choose?

Jungle trails, cloud forests and panoramic views of Andean peaks will inspire you as you follow in the footsteps of the Incas on your way to Machu Picchu. The only question now is, which trip should you take? View our complete list of Inca Trail and Machu Picchu adventures >

Let’s be honest: as magnificent as it may be, Machu Picchu in Peru is not the easiest of places to get to. There are planes, trains and buses involved, not to mention all the various hiking trails that can take you there on foot. Luckily this doesn’t stop the thousands of visitors who make each year the pilgrimage to Machu Picchu – and you shouldn’t be deterred either! We hope that this Peru travel advice can help with a smooth preparation.

Tom Panagos, PR Manager for the World Expeditions UK office, knew he would have less than 10 days on the ground, so to maximise his time in Peru, he did extensive research before fulfilling what upon his return he described as “the trip of a lifetime”.

He shared some first-timer tips and advice to make the most of your trip to Peru.

1. Don’t do the Inca Trail… unless your heart is really set on it

Peru Travel Advice #1: There are several ways to see Machu Picchu

Many people postpone or give up altogether on the idea of a trip to Peru because they think getting to Machu Picchu is too complicated and they need two or three weeks, especially if they want to see other parts of the country too. They shouldn’t! The Inca Trail is not the only way to reach Machu Picchu; it is doable as a day trip from Cusco (though it will make for a long day!), or you can also do the ‘mini Inca Trail’, i.e. the last section of the trail, which is what I would do when I go back. Not only is it the most beautiful section of the Inca Trail, but it also lets you reach Machu Picchu on foot and get your first glimpse of the site from the famous ‘Gateway of the Sun’.

2. Once is not always enough

Peru Travel Advice #2: Once is not enough

Machu Picchu is so vast, not to say mesmerising, that my advice would be to add a second visit back to the ruins – not only so that you can see more of it, but because this way you can really take it all in! This is what I did and we would highly recommend it. Our first visit took place in the afternoon with a guide and it was very informative, we then returned the following morning for a bit more of exploration on our own. It is also worth bearing in mind that the weather at Machu Picchu can be very unpredictable so going back also maximises opportunities for better photographs, as you can never tell when the sun will come out. Friendly advice: Everything you’ve heard about the queues for the bus is true, so make sure you allow enough time!

3. Save the best for last

Peru Travel Advice #3: Allow enough time to acclimatise

Not everyone who arrives at Cusco realises that they land at 3,400m above sea level… Let alone that, unless you are coming from North or Latin America, you are in for at least six hours of time difference! Of course, different people respond to high altitude in different ways – and it certainly doesn’t affect everyone – but dealing with jetlag at the same time can be tough on your body and may prevent you from enjoying the trip fully.

So, my bit of Peru travel advice for anyone who is looking to also travel in various parts of the country; it would be sensible to leave Cusco (and Machu Picchu) for the end of their itinerary. This way your body will have adjusted to the local time so it only has the high altitude to deal with, and of course you will finish your trip on a high, both literally and figuratively.

4. Catch your rays carefully

Peru Travel Advice #4: Bring sun protection

Peru is a year-round destination but most visitors opt to travel between May and October, which coincides roughly with the country’s dry season. Although there are climate variations between Peru’s three main regions (coast, highlands and jungle), no matter where you are or what time of the year you are visiting don’t let those clouds fool you. Peru is just south of the Equator so the sun is much stronger than what most of us are used to.

Make sure you wear good sunglasses to protect your eyes and don’t forget a high-SPF sunscreen. Especially at higher elevations such as Cusco, you may burn your skin without realising. In fact, we noticed that even our local guides were putting sunscreen on, even when the sky was overcast!

5. Remember there is more to Peru than Machu Picchu

Peru Travel Advice #5: See more of Peru beyond Machu Picchu

Peru is the world’s 19^th largest country by area – or, simply put, 10 times the size of England – so it would be a shame to restrict yourself only to Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in between. Even on a fast-paced tour like ours, we got the chance to comfortably travel on the Pan-American Highway along the coast to see the enigmatic Nazca Lines (visiting en route the ‘mini Galapagos’, a pisco winery and the only oasis town in the Americas) and enjoy a full day in capital Lima. But there are so many options. Cusco itself is only a short hop on the plane from Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon, and there are direct train services to Puno and Lake Titicaca, on the border with Bolivia. The north of the country is rich in history with sites such as Chan Chan (the world’s largest adobe city) and Kuelap (which are now easier to access thanks to a new cable car). Then there is Colca Canyon in the south, which, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, is home to soaring condors. My motto for every trip is: “If you go all the way there, you may as well make the most of it!”

We hope this little bit of Tom’s Peru travel advice for first timers has been useful for you. If you have any other queries or like our support deciding what to do on your trip to Peru, please feel free to contact our teams around the world, or browse our range of Peru trips.

When it comes to learning about the best that South America can offer, Andreas Holland is your go-to person. He's Australia’s leading Latin American specialist, having lived in various parts of South America for the past 30 years and is arguably one of the world's most experienced and animated Latin America presenters.

We sat down with Andreas to find out more about his affinity to South America, learn about some of his greatest guiding moments and uncover some of Peru's best kept secrets.

How did you end up being a World Expeditions guide and Peru expert?

My wife Rachel and I had been guiding trips in the highlands and rainforests of Peru for a few years in the early 1980s when we were contacted by a company called Australian Himalayan Expeditions – one of Australia’s pioneering adventure travel companies.

Exploring the Cordillera Vilcanota range in the Peruvian Andes.

Within a few years the company changed its name to World Expeditions to comply with the greater number of destinations to which they offered adventure travel enthusiasts a huge variety of very original itineraries.

They were looking for someone to manage their operations. In Peru and since Rachel and I had lived in Peru since arriving in the late 1970s we had taken a great interest in both the remarkable culture and history of Peru and as former teachers were quite good at learning and remembering facts about this remarkable country.

Combined with our knowledge of trek routes and the fact we spoke Spanish meant we were treated as ‘experts’ and were asked to operate World Expeditions trips there.

What’s your earliest hiking memory?

My very earliest hiking memory was a camping trip along the Tepiricuay River in Paraguay where I had lived for many years. I was probably only nine or ten-years-old and was accompanying my older brothers and sister, which proved to be quite an adventure. It was a very wild country and I remember eating anything we caught and cooking it over an open fire with wild jungle sounds that made the nights an unforgettable cacophony!

What is it about Peru that attracts people?

Unquestionably its iconic sites like Machu Picchu or the Nazca Lines – but there is far more to Peru than that. It has such an incredible geography with superb desert coastlines, beautiful snow peaks, the longest range of mountains in the world and spectacular rainforests which makes up half of the country. Add to that the fact that it is becoming known as one of the best food destinations in the world – it has 3 of the 50 best restaurants in the world!

Glistening peaks of the Andes in Peru

Tell us about the first time you saw Machu Picchu?

In 1979, Rachel and I had been working on an archaeological dig near the start of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and as a treat we decided to take a weekend trip with our first son Quino who was just two-years-old at the time down river to Aguas Calientes to soak in its famous hot springs (in those days still surrounded by cloud forest!).

The next day we had a free morning and headed up to that famous site about which we had read and heard so much and, despite feeling we knew it, we were absolutely stunned by its beauty not just of the perfect stonework in its hundreds of building and terraces but also its utterly unique and spectacular location surrounded by jagged forest covered peaks!

During the last 35 years, I have been to Machu Picchu many hundreds of times and it still has a huge impact on me – it is quite simply astonishing.

Beautiful views of Machu Picchu

For tourists, what do you think is Peru’s best kept secret?

I would have to say the north of Peru with its wonderful archaeological sites dating back to the earliest pre Inca coastal cultures like the Moche and Chimu and the mysterious Chachapoyas (or Warriors of the Clouds) culture with its magical sites like Kuelap in the Amazonian Region of Peru.

Travelling on high mountain trails on the Ausangate trek.

If I had a month’s holiday in South America where would you recommend exploring?

Trekking in the Vilcabamba Range in Peru and the Cordillera Real range in Bolivia plus time in Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca.

Add to that a couple of days in Lima to try some of its brilliant seafood restaurants and a visit to the excellent Larco Museum and perhaps a 3 or 4 day extension to stay at one of the best rainforest lodges in south eastern Peru – Sandoval Lake Lodge.

I believe this would be a perfect itinerary for anyone keen on culture, walking, wildlife, food and adventure!

What’s on your hiking bucket list?

I’ve always wanted to hike in the Himalaya, most particularly in Kashmir. Why? Because the descriptions I have read and the pictures I have seen of Kashmir remind me of Peru.

Want to test your limits and travel to a place you thought you couldn’t on your own? Ladies, it’s time to book that trip and consider a solo mission.

We’re encouraging strong, daring and active women to take up an adventure challenge. Your mission – should you choose to accept – will involve friendship, amazing nature encounters and a chance for women-to-women exchanges among locals.

It’s time to hop on the bandwagon for a female-centric tour and explore a destination from a different woman’s lens. Here are some reasons why you should swap your high heels (or, for many of us, our sensible shoes) for a pair of hiking boots.

1. A different dynamic

Trekking through rugged terrains or going on a horseback ride for the first time can feel more manageable among peers, even if they are strangers. Building basic skills together and learning about a new culture with others adds to the group experience. In a way, there is an unspoken sisterhood of support, camaraderie and a sense of security.

We’re celebrating women who test their limits, are gutsy and who seek out adventures this International Women’s Day. Are you up for the challenge? Photo: Ross Daubney

“Joining a trip where you can go at your own pace and push personal boundaries in a fun, supportive and nurturing environment is a winning combination,” says Kate Harper, NSW manager of World Expedition’s specialised tours.

2. Let your hair down

To truly connect you must disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.

“Women’s only groups often give women that extra freedom to truly be themselves – a freedom to fully experience a place, try new things, and to push themselves in ways they might not feel they can do in mixed group situations,” explains Harper.

The shared experience away from family and work pressures can foster deep connections and comfort among those who are at different stages of their life. It’s also an opportune way to be involved in things you otherwise thought you couldn’t do on your own.

Two paddlers navigate their canoe through the autumn landscape of the Yukon River. Travellers camped on the banks of the Yukon River in authentic northern wilderness and explored the gold rush relics on the way. Photo: Frits Meyst.

3. Feel included

One of the highlights of travelling with other females who have a passion for life and travel is the bond you create over your collective experiences.

The energy from a group of women empowering other women allows you to test your limits and re-discover yourself and your potentials.

“Women like the bonding and friendships that can develop travelling with a group of like-minded, adventurous women,” Harper explains.

Bond with other adventurous souls on our trekking expeditions. Photo: Tim Charody

“The shared experience of facing challenges and new encounters in a fun, safe and supportive environment, nurtures the soul for many women and is the reason why many women choose to travel on all female adventures.”

No matter your situation you are sure to meet like-minded travellers who are keen to seek new experiences and adventures.

Trip picks for female solo travellers

At the heart of each World Expeditions’ Women’s Adventures, is a commitment to an individual’s wellbeing and the opportunity to forge authentic cultural understandings and explorations in the places you visit.

There are opportunities for fun times and, wherever possible, a female local leader will accompany your small group. Our female tours cater for women with our minimal impact philosophy in respect of the environment you are visiting or staying in.

Ladies, it’s time to head out to a real adventure mixed with a bit of comfort and a real immersion into the local culture. From Australia's iconic Laraprinta Trail to trekking along ancient Inca routes to Machu Picchu, where would you like to visit?

   •  Larapinta Trail, Australia –  walk the best sections of Australia's most celebrated desert walk while sleeping under the stars in comfortable and exclusive semi-permanent camps. It's no wonder it's one of our most popular treks! The trip includes a private bush tucker cooking experience and cultural understanding talk.

   •  Annapurna regions, Nepal – our fully supported treks in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges take you through small villages among stunning mountain sceneries or enjoy some yoga under the soaring peaks to keep you inspired.

   •  Mt Salcantay & Machu Picchu, Peru – a favourite choice among female travellers are our active adventures through Peru's cultural and physical wonderlands. You can trek on the flanks of Mt Salcantay, coupled with time in the Sacred Valley where you meet local women of the valley. See the amazing ruins at Machu Picchu and have time to wander and explore Cusco at your own pace.

Local women of Huilloc displaying their handicrafts and weaving. Photo: Mark Tipple

   •  Yukon, Canada – paddle the mighty Yukon River on an introductory canoe trip and spot all sorts of wildlife including the iconic Canadian beaver and otters. Walk in breathtaking national parks, learn about Canada’s First Nations and have dinner over a scenic picnic campfire after your day’s trek.

   •  Torres del Paine, Patagonia – experience Patagonia's most stunning national park while camping under the backdrop of the stunning peaks of Torres del Paine. Stay in fully sustainable eco-campsites in the dramatic Towers of Paine with trekking, nature walks and bike excursions.

   •  Skaftafell National Park, Iceland – embark on an amazing trek through stunning rhyolite landscapes, traversing along the third largest geothermal zone in the world. Trek on a glacier in Skaftafell National Park, snorkel between tectonic plates and soak in a natural hot spring.

View our complete list of Women’s Adventures and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded female travellers in some of the most spectacular destinations.

Have you travelled solo? What were your experiences like? Let us know in the comments below.

Katie and her husband Tom had been wanting to visit Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines in Peru for many, many years. The birth of not only one but two children within a year meant though that the trip had to be postponed. When they decided that it was finally time to tick off that box, it did bring practical difficulties – as in trying to see as much of the country as possible within just over a week!

As for any first-timer to Peru, seeing Machu Picchu was high on their list – but it was the second part of their trip that took them completely by surprise!

So seeing Machu Picchu wasn’t enough?

There is a reason why Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most famous travel icons – its setting is simply breathtaking. Whether you decide to see it as part of the Inca Trail (or one of the less crowded alternative treks) or if you pay a whirlwind visit taking the bus up from the pueblo (Aguas Caleintes) we found it, just like everyone else, stunning – but for us, after planning this trip for so long, going to Peru and not seeing the Nazca Lines was inconceivable.

How easy is it to combine Machu Picchu & Nazca Lines in Peru?

If you look at the map and you are not familiar with the geography of Peru, Cusco and Nazca do not seem that far from each other; in reality, however, they are separated by the Andes, which means that although there is a road connecting the two, it is through narrow winding paths on top of the mountains and takes about 18 hours. The alternative is to fly back from Cusco to capital Lima and from there drive down to Nazca, as there are no commercial flights. Luckily for us, World Expeditions offers a short 3-day/2-night trip from Lima, which does exactly this!

What was the most surprising element of your trip?

As spectacular as Machu Picchu is, seeing the ruins of Pachacamac just south of Lima was one of our trip highlights. Admittedly I knew nothing about it before we went to Peru and, if I’m totally honest, at some point we considered asking our guide to skip it, as our flight from Cusco was delayed… but I am so glad we didn’t! What makes it so special is that it is a ‘living’ excavation site – how often do you get to see archaeologists at work?! Not many people have heard of it, we saw just a handful of other tourists when we were there, but apparently work is underway to build a new National Museum opposite the site so I’m sure the secret will be out soon.

What else did you see along the way?

Admittedly the Galapagos is nowhere high on my wish list but even for someone like me I was pleasantly surprised by the cruise to the Ballestas Islands, also known as the ‘mini Galapagos.’ Those sea lions are one funny lot! Luckily our guide Daniela went above and beyond to ‘enrich’ the long drive to Nazca. She included stops that weren’t officially part of the itinerary, such as the Paracas Nature Reserve (the desert landscape is purely sublime, especially along the coast) and the oasis village of Huacachina (where Tom went sand-boarding). We also visited a local winery, Queirolo Vineyards, to find out more about how pisco is made. Our three-course lunch at its restaurant was one of the top meals we had during our trip… and who would have thought Peruvian wine would taste so good?!

Did the Nazca Lines live up to your expectations?

Absolutely! I must confess that, as everything was so beautifully organised from the first moment we dealt with World Expeditions, we had done very little research ahead of our trip, so hearing that there is an observatory tower just before you arrive into Nazca was a very welcome surprise. We got there just as the sun was setting and getting a glimpse of the petroglyphs under the hazy light was magical… though nothing compares to the experience of actually seeing the Nazca Lines from above on the plane!

Any advice for anyone who wants to see the Nazca Lines in Peru?

Looking back, I am so glad that Daniela had given us in advance a ‘map’ outlining all the different petroglyphs. I thought there are only a handful but in fact there are more than a dozen! I knew of the most famous ones such as the hummingbird or the monkey… but the whale? And there’s a dog too! Although as you’re getting closer, the pilot announces which petroglyph you are about to see, some are not as easy to spot unless you know what they look like! It’s also worth bearing in mind that the plane makes lots of twists and turns to ensure all passengers get to see the Nazca Lines – so if you are prone to motion sickness you may want to take one of those little anti-nausea pills before the flight. It is all very worth it!

>> Browse the complete overview of all holidays to Machu Picchu and Peru or contact our team of travel experts around the world for more information and booking details.

>> More Peru on this blog.

Over the past years, Mrs. Ernestina “Tina” Valeriano has been doing an exceptional job showing travellers her home country of Peru. Via this interview, we like to recognise one of our popular Peru travel guides and we hope you enjoy the read. Perhaps you may meet her on a future trip, or this interview recalls memories from a past trek you did with her as a leader.

Tina is originally from a small town south of Cusco, but she currently lives in the gateway to the Inca Trail itself. Sharing a home with her mother and 14-year-old son, she loves to travel around Peru. When on the way leading trips, her mother takes care of her son and in the months when the Inca Trail is closed, they all like to go on a vacation together.

Why did you become a travel guide?

This job as a Peru travel guide helps me achieve a personal goal. It is my passion in life to share with visitors from other parts of the world the knowledge that I have about my culture and the customs that we follow in Peru. I wanted to grow more as a professional and therefore contacted World Expeditions to work with them.

What are your responsibilities on a trek?

I usually start with organising several of the activities we will undertake with a group. On the first day, I give the travellers a briefing about what our trip will look like and what areas of Peru we will visit. On a daily base, I brief the travellers about the details of each specific day. For example, this can be about certain difficulties that the walk can involve.

I take it as my responsibility to make travellers feel at home during their holiday in Peru.

What do you like best about your job?

It is very special for me to be travelling with a new group every time. Each group is unique. There are many different situations that we would find ourselves in during a trek and there are all kinds of emotions. For example, people can feel tired when walking in the mountains and this can bring about mixed emotions when having completed the trail at the end.

What is your favourite place in Peru?

Because I travel around Peru so much and see so many different places, I do not have one particular place that I like best. There is something fascinating about all the places that I have visited.

What is your best memory ever?

I have the satisfaction of having met very interesting people over the years being a Peru travel guide. I was able to share experiences with travellers on my trips and I have learned about the customs of their countries of origin. All of this has served to enrich my own knowledge and helped me every time to perform as a professional.

If travellers want to bring something to Peru what should it be?

I think it would be good to help the villagers in the mountains with some clothes or other products for the children. This could for example be t-shirts, sweaters, caps, books and notebooks.

What is your number 1 advice for people who are considering to trek in Peru?

My number one advice as a travel guide for Peru would be to make sure people acclimatise well before they start their walk. This also implies being in a good physical condition that travellers can work on at home. Then, of course, travellers should remember to enjoy a lot of what they are going to do while in Peru because each place is unique.

Is there anything else you would like to say to World Expeditions travellers?

When you come to visit my country, I will teach you everything about Peru’s archaeological and gastronomical richness, as a guide I like to explain about our biodiversity, customs & traditions of people living in either the jungle, along the coast or in the highlands (sierra).

Interested in a trip to Peru? Browse the easy to navigate WorldExpeditions.com website for more. Or, contact one of our teams around the world.