Machu Picchu Travel Forum

Im told that there is about 7 hours of hiking per day. Is that including lunch stops? about how long is that? Just trying to get a better feel for what I will be in for. "Reasonably fit" im sure means different things to different people.

Do read the reports on VT
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/South_America/Peru/Departamento_de_Cusco/Machu_Picchu-1604535/Things_To_Do-Machu_Picchu-Inca_Trail-R-1.html

7 hrs hike per day was average. Our group ranging from 30 to 66 years old the strongest one get to camp site faster and the weak one (a lady just had her knee surgery about a month ago) arrived last after sun set. Our guides 3 of them were very good, always stayed with the slowest one. High altitude might cause some concern (dead woman pass was 52000 meter). I had some mild altitude sickness when first arrived at Cuzco lasted for about 3 night (it happened only at night when I was sleeping so I ended with less sleep). But I felt good during the 4 days hiked, no problem.

7 hours includes lunch stops, there are usually lots of breaks along the way. Day 1) depending on the tour you are doing most bus to the beginning of the trail and then you register and start walking - so it is usually 10am beofore you start you will be in camp by about 4pm
Day 2) This is the most physicially demanding day, but it is more about will power than actual fitness, I saw 65 year olds just plod along and make without too much difficulty, but fit 19 year olds in tears. It is an early start but you should be finnished by about 3pm
Day 3) Again an early start but lots of breaks and you should get into winya winna camp site about 3pm - there are hot showers here, but you have to pay for them and get in quick before thehot water runs out.
Day 4) Very early start but really only 3 or so hours walking to see the sun rise over machu pichu and the rest of the day to wander around the ruins.

As I said it is more will power than any thing else and it is definately worth it.