HIKING IN PERU: THE BEST HIKING POLES 2024

By hiking in Peru, you’ll experience features different slopes, lengths and difficulties, therefore you must get to know the best trekking poles for each Cusco and Peru hiking route.

Getting an inca trail for a Machu Picchu hike in Peru , Incas weaver’s route or any trekking program planned by Natourandes not only guarantees unforgettable experiences, but also you will be able to be in contact with unique environments and landscapes along the journeys.

By the way, you can improve your hiking in Peru (Cusco) with optimum trekking poles that energize your movement, strengthen the upper body and bone tissue. And to be clear which trekking pole is the best one for you, only read this blog.

Types of trekking poles:

1. Foldable trekking poles.

The best option for the most of all the Peru trekking tours that exist due to the fact that they can be packed in your backpack to avoid breakage during the transportation. If you want to make the most of the short inca trail or Small Cusco over the mountains to Machu Picchu, we recommend you to buy one of these foldable trekking poles.
Although, they are not durable neither adjustable.

2. Telescopic trekking poles.

These trekking poles are adjustable and can adapt to different slopes and roads. We recommend to bring a telescopic trekking pole for the best treks such as Salkantay trekking, the classic Peru inca trail and Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu.

Because these trekking programs feature dirt trails with several variations in elevation. However, they tend to slip when the ground is wet or snowy.

3. Fixed-length trekking poles.

They are the strongest poles but the most difficult to pack due to it is a nonadjustable pole. This type of trekking pole for hiking in Peru stimulates the work of the scapular muscles (upper body) as well as reduces the impact of each step.
Recommended for Humantay hike and Rainbow mountain tour!

Is a carbon or aluminum pole better for hiking?

• For hikes through steep trails such as the Small Cusco over the mountains to Machu Picchu or The Great Andean Trail to Machu Picchu, where the support on the pole is sometimes heavy, it is better to choose aluminum. Less fragile than carbon and it presents less risk of breakage by hiking in Peru and the inca trail.
• For long and continuous hiking in peru such as Humantay hike or Rainbow mountain tour, we recommend a carbon pole. The higher percentage of carbon, the lighter and more dynamic the pole will be, and it will strengthen the bones without damaging the joints.

Size of trekking poles:

It is better to try it in the store; stand up, hold the pole in your hand and put it straight on the ground; the elbow should then form a right angle (90º).

Meanwhile, if you buy online, multiply your height in cm by 0.68 and then check out the size guide:

• Between 150 and 161 cm = 105 cm poles.
• Between 162 and 169 cm = 110cm poles.
• Between 170 and 176 cm = 115cm poles.
• Between 177 and 183 cm = 120cm poles.
• Between 184 and 191 cm = 125cm poles.

Types of grips for hiking in Peru:

• Cork grip: The best one for inca trail’s expedition to Peru due to it is highly comfortable, perfectly wicks away perspiration for a non-slip grip, durable and allergy-free because it is natural.
• Foam grip: It boasts comfort, lightness and good absorption capacity, perfect for short inca trail.
• Rubber grip: It is a good choice for beginners who want to take the Humantay hike or Rainbow mountain tour, it is convenient and cheap as well.
• Plastic grip: It should be avoided for any hiking in peru because it is hard and increases perspiration.

Pay attention to the trekking pole’s tip:

This element of the pole must absorb the impact especially when you visit to Machupicchu citadel; therefore, it is recommended to use shock-absorbing tips. Moreover, the classic trekking poles damage the floor of this worldwide wonder and are not allowed inside.

We hope this information suits your necessities to be sure which trekking pole will be the best for hiking in peru. By the way, when you are ready to take a trekking program, please contact us!