Can I hike it alone?

Yes. There is not much risk of injury if you stick to the main trails to the top.

This author hiked it solo without gear. <trip report>

But if you do want to join up with others, check with the agencies in Arequipa to see if others are going.

In Cuzco, post a note with your e-mail address at the South American Explorers Club to let others know you are looking to climb Misti.

---

Should I join an organized tour? Hire a guide?

We are independent hikers. This website is designed for those who like to organize their own trip.

But no, it is not necessary to join a tour if you have any kind of hiking experience.

If you do join a tour, be cautious with whom you go. Get a strong recommendation from someone who has taken a trip with them. Some agencies are poor. Some do not deliver what they promise. Much depends on which guide you happen to get.

Under no circumstances hire someone who approaches you on the streets of Arequipa.

Best to do this hike on your own, if you can.

Pack animals are not used on this trek. You would only hire a guide.

---

Can I bring children?

Certainly. But only if they have multi-day hiking experience.

---

Should I hike Inca Trail instead?

You must see Machu Picchu.

But no, we recommend you do the main Inca Trail alternative, the Salcantay Trek, instead if you want to hike to Machu Picchu.

Oft heard complaints about the Inca Trail:

• too expensive
• too crowded
• over-regulated
• independent hiking not allowed
• requires 30 day advance booking
• arrives at Machu Picchu too late to see the site empty of tourists

Most hikers enjoy the Inca Trail — the most popular hike in South America — despite the restrictions. But Salcantay & Misti hikes are better.

If you do hike the Inca Trail, check Danbury’s guidebook, The Inca Trail, Cusco & Machu Picchu.

---

Should I hike Ausangate instead?

If you are a hardcore multi-day hiker, yes.

Ausengate is a 4-6 day circuit, 70+km about 7 hours by bus S.E. of Cuzco. It is a much more spectacular, serious adventure than Misti, Salcantay or the Inca Trail.

In our opinion, in this reigion, Ausangate is best, then the Colca 5-day trek. Misti is more of a mountain climb than a full trek.