Preparing to Climb Machu Pichu

Doing stuff for the first time is always difficult - you never know what to bring, which way is quickest, what to buy and what you can save on. Some people love the experimentation but I just hate the inevitable waste.

Spent much of yesterday deciding what gear hire was worthwhile. Have settled on a pair of hiking boots ($20 NZ), walking poles ($15 NZ), mattress ($20 NZ), sleeping bag ($20 NZ) and plastic poncho ($5 NZ). Tents are being provided by the tour.

The 4 day trek itself dips to as low as 2000m and rises as high as 4000m. Such fluctuations can lead to altitude sickness but I think we'll be fine.

We will be accompanied by several porters. They carry up to 6kgs of our belongings, though much of that is taken up by the sleeping bag, mattress etc. Feels slightly imperialistic but they seem pretty happy with it.Read more