Plan your trip early. There are daily limits on the number of hikers allowed to hike the Inca Trail, so book your trip at least eight or nine months in advance.
Communicate with tour companies or guides. You must be accompanied by an approved guide or tour company to hike the Inca Trail. Decide whether you want to go with a group (maximum size is 16), or choose to hire a private guide.
Study the available routes to see which one will best suit you. The "Classic Route" is a four-day hike to Machu Picchu, but most tour companies also offer alternative routes, including a two-day hike to Machu Picchu and longer treks that continue past Machu Picchu.
Go on long, strenuous hikes, carrying a weighted backpack, preferably over uneven, hilly terrain on a regular basis before your trip to make sure you're in good shape.
On days you cannot get outside to hike, work out on a Stairmaster or a treadmill and do squats and lunges to build up your leg muscles.
Break in your hiking boots.
Pack clothing you can layer, lightweight rain gear, a hat, sunglasses and possibly long underwear that can double as sleepwear. Even if you hire a porter, they are only allowed to carry 20 pounds.
Other things you should bring include, but are not limited to, bug spray, water bottles and water-purifying tablets, toiletries and a camera.
Acclimate yourself to the high altitude once you reach Peru. Use the acclimation time to visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, traditional markets or the other Inca ruins near the city of Cusco.
