In this episode of The Ultimate Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jake Field breaks down the seven most common mistakes people make when trekking to Machu Picchu and how to avoid them.

From altitude challenges and overpacking to poor footwear choices and underestimating the trek’s difficulty, Jake shares insider tips learned from years of guiding groups through the Peruvian Andes.

This is a must-listen for anyone planning to take on the Inca Trail, Salkantay, or Short Inca Trail in 2026 — whether it’s your first big trek or your next bucket-list adventure.

Takeaways:

• Train properly for altitude before you trek.
• The Inca Trail is demanding — build endurance in advance.
• Pack light, practical layers and the right gear.
• Don’t wear new or unsuitable footwear.
• Understand your route options (Classic, Salkantay, or Short).
• Get travel insurance that covers trekking and evacuation.
• Take time to enjoy the journey — not just the destination.
• Stay hydrated and fuel your body properly.
• Prepare for changing weather across microclimates.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Episode

00:59 Preparing for the Machu Picchu Trek

02:26 Training for Altitude: The Key to Success

05:12 Understanding the Trek’s Difficulty

08:03 Packing the Right Gear

10:41 Choosing the Right Footwear

13:53 Selecting the Best Route to Machu Picchu

17:25 Why Travel Insurance Isn’t Optional

21:04 Embracing the Journey: Enjoying Every Step

23:37 Recap: Avoiding Common Trekking Mistakes

Ultimate Guide Links;

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