The city of Cuzco is the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and not only holds ancestral secrets and landscapes that seem magical, but also has a peculiarity that few travelers consider seriously enough: its roads. Oh, the roads of Cuzco! Cobblestone, dusty, muddy or stony, depending on the day, the route and the mood of the Andean climate. That’s why, in this blog, I will tell you which Trekking footwear is the best companion for your adventures in these magical lands.
Goodbye shoes, hello boots!
First: if you were planning to take a serious walk in Cusco wearing sandals, Crocs, or canvas sneakers… I have bad news for you: no. Simply, no. It’s like going to war with a spoon. The Andean topography spares nothing. The minimum you’ll need is a good pair of trekking boots.
Look for ones with non-slip soles, good cushioning, and water resistance. Not just because it might rain during your hike (it will rain), but also because sometimes streams decide to cross your path. Especially if you’re doing routes like the Salkantay Trek, where the terrain can change from loose rocks to mud in the blink of an eye.
What about sports sneakers?
If you’re going for short walks or visiting the Sacred Valley, you could manage with good hiking sneakers. Just a heads-up: these should not be the ones you use for running in the park, but ones designed specifically for hiking. These are lighter than boots, ideal for walks like the Palccoyo trail, where the route is not as demanding but you still need stability.
But if you plan to do the Inca Trail, definitely don’t skimp: go for boots. Your body, especially your ankles, will thank you.
Waterproof: the blessing of dry feet
It doesn’t matter if it’s the dry or rainy season. In the mountains, the weather can change faster than your mobile data in areas without signal. Good waterproof boots will be a lifesaver. They’ll save you from mud, treacherous streams, and from finishing your hike with wrinkled, cold feet.
Also, in places like Salkantay, where you can go from bright sunshine to light snow in a matter of hours, dry feet are synonymous with a happy heart.
Weight does matter: don’t carry bricks
Yes, you need durable boots, but don’t bring military-style ones that weigh more than your backpack. The ideal is to find the balance between protection and lightness. There are mid-cut boots that are perfect for this kind of adventure: they protect, they’re comfortable, and they won’t make you feel like you’re walking with concrete blocks on your feet.
Ventilation and materials: let your feet breathe
Although it’s cold at high altitudes, your feet will sweat just the same. And if your footwear doesn’t have good ventilation, get ready for a blister party. Look for trekking boots or shoes made from breathable materials, but without losing waterproof capabilities. It’s a sacred balance, almost as mystical as Machu Picchu’s harmony between the mountain and the clouds.
And what about socks?
Ah, socks. So underestimated, yet so important. Invest in technical hiking socks. No cotton ones you wear to the gym. They get wet and hold moisture. You need ones that keep your feet dry, cushion the impact, and, of course, prevent blisters.
A trick from modern Andean wisdom: wear a thin sock first, and then put a thicker one on top. Your feet will feel like they’re in a cloud, but without the risk of storms.
Footwear for your Cusco adventure:
- Inca Trail: Trekking boots, no question. The route is long, with many elevation changes, eternal Inca stairs, and variable weather.
- Machu Picchu (by train or bus): If you’re only doing the short routes (Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu), you can use hiking sneakers. But if you’re walking from Hidroeléctrica, go with boots.
- Salkantay Trek: Irregular terrain and changing weather. Waterproof, durable, and comfortable trekking boots are a must.
- Vinicunca: The path is steep, and the ground can be muddy. Boots with good grip and mid-cut are recommended.
- Palcoyo: Easier and more accessible, you can go with light trekking shoes. Still, avoid casual footwear.
And after the hike?
Your feet deserve a vacation too. Bring comfortable sandals or Crocs to relax when you reach your accommodation. There’s nothing like taking off your boots after an epic hike while watching the afternoon fall in the Andes.
Walking in Cusco is about connecting with history, breathing nature, and marveling at every step. But to fully live this experience, you need your feet to be protected, comfortable, and happy. So choose your footwear wisely, make it part of your journey from day one, and get ready for every trail whether it’s to Vinicunca, Palcoyo, the Inca Trail, or Machu Picchu to become a story to tell… without blisters in the way!
Karen Pamela Riveros Rojas
