Inca Trail Bathrooms
Exploring the Inca Trail: A Guide to Bathroom Facilities
Embarking on the Inca Trail is an exciting adventure that will take you through ancient ruins, breathtaking scenery and a deep connection to history. When planning this extraordinary journey, it is essential to consider practicalities, such as inca trail bathrooms along the way.
In this guide, we’ll explore the options available and provide knowledge you’ll need along the way for any emergencies. While not luxurious, it is important to know where to find them along the way, usually at base camps or near archaeological sites. Let’s not forget that tour companies can also carry this equipment, so it is necessary that the company you travel with has these portable toilets for the Inca Trail.
To address the previous issue of unregulated waste disposal, toilets have been strategically placed along the Inca Trail at various intervals. Initially, the facilities are clean and well-maintained, being owned by local communities. However, as travelers progress along the trail, the quality of these toilets often declines rapidly. Despite separate designations for men and women, both genders typically utilize the same facilities since there is little functional distinction between them. Consequently, it’s common for individuals of all genders to use whichever restroom is available at the time. Some tourist companies offer portable toilets as part of their services, which I’ve found to be invaluable during the journey. Their cleanliness and availability mitigate the risk of unforeseen circumstances while using trailside bathrooms, making them a practical addition for the entire Inca Trail trek.
On the Inca Trail, where can the bathrooms be found?
Restrooms on the Inca Trail are located at specific points: at the trailhead, at the lunch stop on the first day, at the campsites on the first and second days, and at the Wiyñaywayna camp on the third day. These facilities have no water and consist of basic toilets on the ground. Maintenance of the toilets on the trail is irregular and their condition depends on use and occasional cleaning by maintenance crews, which may be done once or twice a month. Disinfection is not guaranteed and they often give off unpleasant odors. Some tour operators may offer a “potty tent” at campsites, designed specifically for use as a toilet. These tents have a folding toilet seat and a special bag with absorbent gel underneath, which the porters seal and dispose of after the trek.
Bathrooms on the route
Throughout the Inca Trail route, you can observe different restrooms, each one as shown, is marked with the respective gender. The locations of these vary and as shown below.
Bathroom at Warmiwañusca descent
Chaquicocha Bathroom
Pacaymayo Bathroom
Important information about bathrooms
- The conditions of the bathrooms along the Inca Trail are not good. Important points such as hygiene and cleanliness are not assured in these facilities. At the beginning of the trek, the toilets are usually clean, but as you progress, their quality decreases considerably. By the second day, you will probably find yourself using floor-type toilets, where you will have to bend down. While the cleanliness won’t be the best on the following days either. These are some of the most common complaints within toilets. This is why they usually have their portable toilets which is another important point to be discussed later.
- Toilet paper is an important factor to keep in mind when planning for the Inca Trail, as it’s not provided in the bathrooms along the route. It’s essential to bring your own supply. While the tour company may supply it, it’s wise to take the initiative and bring some yourself. After use, it’s crucial to focus on maintaining cleanliness. Look for a designated container near the toilet to dispose of used toilet paper instead of throwing it into the toilet. This practice not only contributes to environmental conservation but also helps prevent clogs and other plumbing issues.
- Portable toilets, also referred to as “toilet tents,” are highly recommended for consideration when planning your Inca Trail expedition. While not all tour companies may offer this service, it remains a crucial aspect to prioritize when selecting an operator. Despite potentially entailing a higher cost and requiring booking with a provider that includes portable toilets, the advantages are significant. These toilets, carried by porters, guarantee cleanliness and exclusive use by your group. Inside the tent, you’ll find privacy and a comfortable seating arrangement atop a toilet drum. Should any issues arise, your operator will promptly address them, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey along the trail.
Recommendations for the use of bathrooms
Basic Facilities: The Inca Trail offers basic bathroom facilities in the form of pit toilets or latrines at designated camping areas along the route. These facilities are functional and serve the purpose of waste disposal. However, it’s important to note that they may not provide the same level of comfort and cleanliness as modern facilities. Be prepared for a rustic experience in the midst of nature.
Proper Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good hygiene practices while using the bathroom facilities is crucial to ensure your own comfort and minimize environmental impact. Carry essential items such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes with you. Dispose of used toilet paper in designated waste bins or bring sealable bags to pack it out. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly after using the facilities.
Privacy Considerations: While using the bathroom facilities along the Inca Trail, it’s important to respect the privacy of others. These facilities are shared among trekkers, so be mindful of fellow hikers and give them the space and privacy they need. Maintain a considerate distance from others and wait for your turn if necessary.
Additional Tips:
- Plan your water intake to minimize the need for frequent bathroom breaks. Stay hydrated, but be mindful of limited restroom facilities along the trail.
- Familiarize yourself with the locations of the nearest bathroom facilities at each camping area to plan your breaks accordingly.
- If you need to relieve yourself outside the designated facilities, follow Leave No Trace principles. Choose a discreet location away from water sources, dig a small hole, and cover it properly afterward.
- Environmental Responsibility: Preserving the natural beauty of the Inca Trail is a collective responsibility. When using bathroom facilities, ensure that you follow sustainable practices to minimize your impact on the environment. Dispose of waste properly, avoid contaminating water sources, and leave the facilities as clean as you found them.
