Fear of Heights and the Inca Trail?

Question

I am travelling to Peru in December and am dying to see Machu Picchu, preferably by climbing the Inca trail first. However there is one rather major problem - I have a really bad fear of heights (to the point where i freak out having to climb down fire escapes, i struggle with suspension bridges over about 15m high and im not great at standing near cliff edges)! However I am also an accomplished skier as for some reason heights in that respect dont seem to bother me. I realise that it is also possible to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco by train but I'm not to keen on staying in the city by myself whilst my other travel companians follow the trail as I'm terrifed of needlessly missing out on this experience! Is it possible to do the Inca Trail with such a fear bearing in mind i dont want to get half way there only to have a panic attack and freeze???

Answer 1

Hola,

I have been to Machu Picchu twice. Once I did the trip on horseback, called the alternate trail, the second time I took the train. The traditional trail as well as any other route has parts where you may feel like you are at the edge of the world. It is the Andes mountains!! But it would be worth it to put in your best effot to ignore you panic of heights. People on the trek can help you. You may want to consider the altitude on the trek. Also, Cusco is at 11,500 feet and it is definitely high altitude and you will feel it. Machu Picchu is about 5,000 feet lower. Drink lots of bottled water and mate de coca. Buen Suerte!

Answer 2

take the train

Answer 3

If you can take a nice 3 to 5 days hiking a beautiful yet hard trail, it is worth every second. being affraid of heights will not effect you in any part.

I did the Inca trail (5 days) and i thought it was fantastic. If you dont think you can do it just take the train, which is also beautiful, but i would definatly recomend doing to 3 or 5 day trek.

The best of luck.

Answer 4

well its not only me then !!!!

if i were you i would try it , if you dont then you will always wonder " what if "

my problem is when i stand looking over an edge i get a compulsion to dive off , not good on clifff edges

but i am sure as h**l a good diver at the swimming pool , lol

hope it goes well for you

i was actually shaking writing this thinking about the cliff edges , so i know how it feels

will be rooting for you

all the best

Ian