Luna1

Given the altitude, can those of us in medium shape enjoy it? By medium, I mean in good health, go to the gym, ski, but don't run 10K's or work out every day. Any opinions?

Tierry

for sure you can , second day everybody suffer ,,, crossing a pass 4200 , but in our group were even persons around 65 year , the distance is not verry long and you have the whole day to reach the campsite, so you have to enjoy it and not running the trail !

qwovadis

Altitude Illness and fitness are not related.

Most that do the trail are in medium/poor shape.

but be sure and bring Acetazolamide 250mg(Diamox)

to take as a preventive for altitude illness...

#1 cause of suffering on the Trail...

www.mdtravelhealth.com Peru Altitude Illness

www.pmexplorers.com good info on trail.

P_M

I did the Inca Trail last year at the ripe old age of 44. I'm like you, I stay in good shape but I'm no marathon runner. I recommend spending at least a few days in Cuzco, Puno or some other part of the country where the altitude is high before going on the trail. Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine to head off altutide sickeness.

Luna1

Thanks, everyone, we will be in the Sacred Valley first so hope to gradually acclimate to the altitude. So it sounds like altitude is more of an issue than fitness ie our teenagers may or may not experience discomfort?

P_M

Yes, it's entirely possible your teens will have altitude sickness too, since it really isn't related to age or fitness.